The building at 500 Dunsmuir Street

500 Dunsmuir Street to be demolished due to life safety

December 18 2024 –

Today, City Council adopted a resolution to declare the building at 500 Dunsmuir Street a danger to public safety. The property owner, 500 Dunsmuir Property, owned by Holborn Properties, will be required to demolish the structure. The owner is also required to preserve certain heritage features to be reused in any future development of the site, provided that can be accomplished safely.

Following an on-site inspection with third-party engineers, the City’s Chief Building Official determined that stabilizing the structure cannot be done safely in a timely manner. Vacant since 2013, the structure has suffered extensive damage from years of neglect. Key concerns include: 

  • Severe water damage 
  • Contamination from hazardous building materials and wildlife biowaste 
  • Compromised structural integrity 

Building maintenance, regardless of a building’s occupancy status, is the responsibility of the property owner. While the City had been aware of the building’s deteriorating condition, the full extent of the damage only became evident recently. Upon learning of the severity, the City acted immediately to conduct inspections, engage third-party experts and ensure that appropriate actions were taken to protect public safety.