Granville Island

April, 1984

This redevelopment was undertaken by the Government of Canada which has administered the island since 1913.

Prior to that time, the area was a tidal mudflat which was built to its present 40 acre size by a process of dredging carried out by the National Harbours Board. It became an industrial area fitting the then character of False Creek.

In 1972, The Honourable Ron Basford, who was then The Minister of State for Urban Affairs and The Member of Parliament for Vancouver Centre, commissioned a study on the redevelopment of the island, to change it from a purely industrial site to one which offered a variety of benefits to the community. During 1973, responsibility for the administration of the island was transferred to The Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation with Mr. Basford continuing to act as the responsible minister. Subsequently, in 1974, The Government of Canada approved the expenditure of the necessary development funds, which eventually totalled 19.5 million dollars, in order to convert the old industrial site to a "people place".

The Granville Island Trust was appointed in 1976 to act as an advisory body to The Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation. The trust currently consists of eight local individuals, including three representatives who were appointed on the recommendation of The City of Vancouver. The City of Vancouver reviewed and approved the final redevelopment plan in 1978.

Federal funds were used to create the public market which opened in 1979 and to develop the seawall, parks, play areas, streets and services. In addition to commercial ventures such as the maritime market and the restaurants and hotel, there are also numerous recreational and cultural features. These include the theatres and the studio and workshop spaces for artists and craftsmen, all of which are offered at minimum rents, as well as The Emily Carr College of Art and Design, sponsored by The Government of British Columbia and The False Creek Community Centre, sponsored by The City of Vancouver. Efforts have also been made to preserve and enhance some of the original industrial character of the island.

This landmark commemorates the commitment of The Government of Canada to the redevelopment of Granville Island. It recognizes the efforts of those individuals who proposed and carried out this project and the spirit of co-operation which made it possible.

On behalf of The Government of Canada:

Senator Jack Austin

Honourable Romeo LeBlanc

Minister of State for

Minister Responsible for

Social Development

Canada Mortgage and

Housing Corporation

Granville Island Trust since inception:

King Ganong, Chairman

Geoffrey Massey

Jonathan Baker

Mark Moseley

Max Beck

Helen Patterson

Charles Flavelle

Michael Plunkett

Ian Maclennan

Douglas Sutcliffe