METRO VANCOUVER DESTINATION MANAGEMENT COUNCIL UPDATE

The Metro Vancouver Destination Development Strategy includes a priority project to attract investment for new accommodations. Tourism partners in communities across the Metro Vancouver planning area are looking for ways to drive the business case for accommodation development and address consistent constraints on hotel capacity. Across British Columbia, the cities with the highest occupancy levels—ranging from 78 to 82% average occupancy—include downtown Vancouver, Richmond, Surrey, and North Vancouver.

The Council formed a Hotel Working Group to understand demand across cities, document challenges, and identify tools to incentivize hotel development. The Working Group is sharing case studies, policy updates, research, and engagement opportunities. It is also collaborating with a broader group of government officials, tourism, and accommodation partners. The group will meet again in March 2024.