Vancouver approves controversial plan to increase density, public space on Broadway [Video]

After hours of public comment Wednesday, Vancouver city council reconvened Thursday and approved a revised plan for Broadway that would further increase the density of the busy corridor. 

The approved changes mean the city will allow taller buildings along Broadway, including housing for thousands more people, and add more public spaces like parks and community gardens.

City planners say the changes will also help Broadway align with and exceed provincial legislation requiring higher density near transit hubs as construction continues on a new SkyTrain line for part of the street. 

More than 100 residents and advocates brought their concerns and opinions about the plan to a City of Vancouver standing committee meeting on Wednesday. 

Some residents and business owners were concerned they would be displaced by development. Others said they were worried the density would change the character of their neighbourhoods without addressing affordability.

Meanwhile, some housing advocates said the …