When working in North Vancouver recently I was drawn to the empty storefront at 177 West First Street. I researched a bit, and discovered a common tale: a heritage building with a rich history – in this case, the BC Telephone Building erected in 1926, which was later occupied by the charming Bella Doni flower shop, and now, in part due to it’s heritage status, to be preserved and incorporated into a new development. In theory it’s a great idea, but as often happens, the process has sadly left many people dissatisfied — a popular business has closed, and all that’s left is the memory of angry words plus a neighbourhood whose character has changed, probably for the worse.
For more info, read Donald Luxton and Associates’ 2013 report on the building to the City of North Vancouver,
cnv.org/~/media/A2C733727A2940608E58DFEC71E7DE39.pdf
And, the North Shore News report of the council meeting that approved the development,
http://www.nsnews.com/news/six-more-storeys-for-lower-lonsdale-1.859547