Though it started as a temporary project during the pandemic, the City of Vancouver's temporary expedited patio program (TEPP) will now operate annually. (Ben Nelms/CBC)Privatization of public spaceThe commission also raised concerns about turning public spaces into private spaces that can only be accessed by those able to pay. It warned that the privatization of public space can have a gentrifying effect and can unfairly impact vulnerable people. City staff has been directed to review the patio program and to report back with "strengthened guidelines to balance demands on public space and to ensure and enforce accessibility." Earlier in September, the City of Port Coquitlam also moved to make its outdoor spaces program permanent.

Source: CBC News September 22, 2021 19:52 UTC