“… the objectives of this project have been to capture the genius of the past, which transformed a former industrial site into an internationally acclaimed model of urban redevelopment to address the challenges of the present, and to shape the future with imagination and bold ideas.”
– Granville Island 2040
1
GUIDING PRINCIPLES
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Granville Island is situated on ancestral, traditional and unceded territories of the xʷməθkwəy̓əm (Musqueam), Skwxwú7mesh (Squamish), and sel̓íl̓witulh (Tsleil-waututh) Nations, under the administration of the federal government.
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Given the Island’s history, it could be at the forefront of building right relations between Indigenous and Non-Indigenous peoples, which includes having a prominent Indigenous presence on the Island.
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It is economically self-sustaining and mandated for use of the people of Canada which protects that land from Vancouver real estate pressures.
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Being Federally administered means that municipal land-use rules do not apply; this allows for non-specific and mixed-use zoning which creates a supportive environment for diversity, cultural cross-pollination, urban and social innovation, and experimentation.
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Granville Island should retain its industrial character, using existing buildings whenever possible and ensuring that new development is in keeping with this character. In addition, the Island should honour its status as a gathering place since time immemorial.
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Activities and pursuits that promote public enjoyment and innovation are prioritized over those that are purely based on market forces.
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Granville Island should be attractive and accessible to a diverse group of people.
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Besides the chain stores that got their start on Granville Island, like JJ Bean and The Keg, chain stores are not meant to be permitted on Granville Island.
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Due to Granville Islands unusual mandate, non-market leases and rents can be tailored to encourage and support innovation and experimentation.