The days are numbered for a former downtown Vancouver hotel that has stood for more than a century.
Built in 1908, the building at 500 Dunsmuir St (at the intersection with Richards Street) will be demolished starting Friday, Jan. 17, according to the City of Vancouver. It's been vacant since 2013.
In December 2024, the building, dubbed Dunsmuir House, was deemed a "danger to public safety."
On Dec. 19, the city, via a council resolution, ordered the demolition to take place as soon as possible.
Due to the state of the building, no heritage components will be preserved.
"The chief building officer has determined that the condition requiring safe preservation of heritage components cannot be fulfilled and the demolition must proceed without delay," notes the city in a media release regarding the demolition.
In the same document, the City of Vancouver also expressed frustration with the current owners of the building, Holborn Group. "The City is disappointed that the owners of Dunsmuir House, a building with significant heritage value, neglected the building to the point where demolition became the only viable option to ensure public safety."
"Property owners have a responsibility to maintain their buildings, and allowing a property to fall into disrepair and become a hazard to public safety is unacceptable."
Preparation for the demolition is expected to start on Friday with active demolition starting Saturday. It will continue until things are wrapped up and is expected to finish on Monday morning.
A noise by-law exception has been made to allow 24-hour work.
Traffic delays
Due to the size of the demolition, sections of Dunsmuir and Richards streets will be closed from Friday to Monday.
The sections closed will be:
- Dunsmuir Street between Homer Street and Seymour Street
- Richards Street between West Georgia Street and Pender Street
"Sidewalk access to adjacent businesses will be maintained, however, road users and pedestrians are encouraged to plan ahead and allow for extra time if travelling through downtown during this period," reads the release.
With files from Mike Howell
