Theresa McManus, The Record (New Westminster)

The City of New Westminster is seeking public input about a proposal that caused considerable controversy in the community last year.

City council has directed staff to consult with the Fraser Health Authority (Royal Columbian Hospital), the McBride Sapperton Residents’ Association and the Sapperton Business Association regarding a proposed amendment to the official community plan for 273 and 275 Sherbrooke St. The Elizabeth Fry Society is proposing to develop a building that has four-storey and two-storey components.

…While many child-care centres operate during daytime hours, the proposed child-care centre at this site would offer nontraditional hours (including a night nursery) to accommodate the different shifts of employees working at Royal Columbian Hospital. The hospital is located across the street from the site….

The society submitted the application after determining there’s a need for more non-market housing, housing that allows women to stay there as they age and daycare services that are offered in non-traditional hours