B.C. cancels planned Vancouver overdose prevention site

The B.C. government has cancelled a planned overdose prevention site at 900 Helmcken St. in Vancouver, three months after the location was announced.

The proposal drew opposition from residents, businesses and the City of Vancouver. Mayor Ken Sim said Health Minister Ravi Kahlon confirmed the site would not move forward and thanked community members who raised concerns about safety and care.

Kahlon said the province still needs a commitment from the city and other partners to support vulnerable people and prevent overdoses in businesses and communities. The site had been leased for two years at a cost of $179,000, and the province says it will consider other uses for the property.

In October, Vancouver voters are set to consider a plebiscite on stronger city rules for open-air drug use and whether more involuntary-care beds should be provided at the former St. Paul’s Hospital or another location.