City of Vancouver explores ways to save The Waldorf

Statement from Mayor Gregor Robertson:

The Waldorf closing is a big loss to Vancouver’s growing creative community. They built a great culture hub, and it’s my hope that they’ll be able to re-launch and return in some form in the near future. Supporting Vancouver’s dynamic arts and culture sector is a top priority of our City Council, and the City is exploring ways to support the Waldorf continuing as one of Vancouver’s most unique and vibrant cultural spaces.

Additional background from the Mayor’s Office:

The site at 1489 East Hastings is currently zoned for mixed-use commercial purposes, not residential development. Any change in zoning would require extensive neighbourhood consultation and approval by City Council.

The fact that the Mayor was quick to react and take his support to twitter indicates that The Waldorf and it’s values, ideals and cultural ideals will live on in some form or another. It just won’t be at the current site.

Image by knightbefore_99