A motion to allow more arts and culture events in Vancouver has been approved.
City council showed unanimous support for a motion that will allow for more "unconventional" event spaces around the city, such as studios, warehouses, factories, offices, shops, and retail spaces.
The motion was brought forward by councillors Sarah Kirby-Yung and Peter Meiszner at the April 11 meeting and builds off a pilot program that occurred between 2013 and 2015 which saw over 100 events take place.
The program was made permanent in 2015. However, despite its success, it was modified to allow such events to take place only two to three days per month.
"One of the most critical challenges facing arts and culture is the availability of affordable spaces," reads the councillors' motion. "Cultural spaces are essential. For any healthy, vibrant city to sustain and develop cultural vitality, artists and culture makers need access to affordable, diverse and safe venues to showcase their work and engage audiences."
City staff will review relevant policies and by-laws and report back in June when council will consider increasing or doubling the frequency of events allowed each month.
