May 12, 2008

Community cans proposal for clam-shell roof over Robson Square

British Columbia looks to public for fresh ideas

RICHARD GILBERT

staff writer

The B.C. government has opened up the public-consultation process over what to do with Robson Square, which means plans to build a wooden “clam-shell” roof are baked.

Robson Square is home to the Provincial Law Courts, UBC Sauder School of Business, Vancouver Art Gallery and the 2010 Commerce Centre. Later this year, the square will house the B.C. Showcase and Hosting Space.

Future plans for Robson Square also include B.C.’s Asia-Pacific Centre. Economic Development Minister Colin Hansen announced on April 23 that plans to build a clam-shell roof over the Robson Square for the Olympics have been scrapped and public consultation will shape future development.

“There is a tremendous opportunity for British Columbians to come forward and participate in a dialogue to both preserve the legacy of Robson Square and look ahead to the future,” he said.

“We have said from the beginning this space belongs to the people of British Columbia and public input will be key in determining how the facility will be a part of Vancouver for years to come.”

The first step in developing the consultation process is for the government to issue a request for proposals (RFP) and hire a consulting company to help engage community participation.

“Robson Square is a landmark facility that has played an important part in our community over the past three decades,” said Maureen Enser, Urban Development Institute executive director.

“The announcement of a consultation process is a positive step forward for the community and will ensure constructive dialogue is achieved between governments, local architects, the development community and general public.”

Robson Square was designed by Vancouver architect Arthur Erickson.

It opened in two phases, in 1978 and 1979, and was completed at a total cost of $139 million.

The facility is the province’s largest building, with 111,500 square metres (1.2 million square feet) covering three city blocks.

The idea for a clam-shaped roof was floated last year, but received almost universal criticism, which included a plea from the Royal Architectural Institute of Canada to drop the concept.

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