Lower Lonsdale and Seaspan have something in common. A decade ago, they were mere shadows of what they are today. Now, one may be a threat to the other.
City of North Vancouver council is calling out Seaspan for its apparent refusal to address the city’s concerns about plans for new dry docks floating closer to The Shipyards and Lower Lonsdale waterfront housing.
Some would argue it was the city’s mistake to allow homes and public gathering spaces so close to an existing shipyard. But living alongside industry, sometimes in conflict, is part of our settler history, going right back to the Moodyville Sawmill in the 1860s. Still, we have found ways to remain one of the most desirable places to make a home in all of Canada.
In a controversial decision, city council approved the Low Level Road project in 2012. That triggered a cascade of terminal expansions along the waterfront, much to the chagrin of nearby residents.
There’s no question we are pleased to see the private sector investing in itself on our industrial waterfront. It enables the trade that defines our economy and sets our standard of living.
But Seaspan’s current boom times are thanks in large part to their being awarded federal contracts under the national shipbuilding strategy, which taxpayers continue to top up with each cost overrun.
Seaspan’s and the port’s leadership should remember today’s success is thanks to the good graces and finances of the public, a public that is now begging them to listen. Our port and shipbuilding industry’s future prosperity do not have to come at the expense of the community that surrounds them.
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