Housing will form a major component in the development of the Jericho Lands in Vancouver.

A variety of housing types is being eyed for the 36-hectare property on the west side of the city.

Based on a City of Vancouver staff report, the mix will generally be a split between 70 percent for private ownership or market homes and 30 percent for mixed rentals.

The former military base with ocean views is owned by the Musqueam, Squamish, and Tsleil-Waututh Partnership, and the federal Canada Lands Company.

A Vancouver city staff report presents a set of draft “guiding principles” and “emerging ideas” for endorsement by council.

One of the seven draft guiding principles talks about creating “a place to call home”.

“The ʔəy ̓alməxʷ / Iy̓ álmexw / Jericho Lands will provide new housing, with a range of options for households of different incomes, ages and mobility needs, from students to families to seniors, while creating opportunities for intergenerational living and learning,” the principle states.

Moreover, the new neighbourhood will be “designed to incorporate a variety of building types suitable for a diversity of households”.

“Affordable housing options, including both social and secured rental housing will be provided,” the principle also states.

An idea about the mix of housing is provided in a separate set of 24 “emerging site planning ideas” grouped into four themes.

One of the themes is “inclusive neighbourhoods”.

Ideas under inclusive neighbourhoods include “diverse housing choices” for residents with a mix of incomes.

“At least 30% of the units will be comprised of social housing, market and below-market rental housing,” the document states.

It also declares: “Integrate a variety of housing options throughout the districts in apartment forms that include ground-oriented units.”

Overall, development in the Jericho Lands will “include a range of building types and scales that respond to the site’s unique natural features as well as proximity to a potential future Millennium Line Extension from Arbutus Street to UBC”.

As for future heights of buildings, the document states, “Explore the placement of taller buildings to distinguish districts, accentuate the ridge, optimize transit use and create a culturally distinct skyline.”

The same draft seeks to “recognize land as a limited resource”.

Hence, “Consider topography and the surrounding context in designing for building height and density across the site.”

As well, “Recognize that there are trade-offs between building height and density, and providing land for parks, open space, water management and biodiversity, public amenities, and affordable housing.”

The report about planning for the Jericho Lands is included in council’s agenda Wednesday (June 23).

A policy statement for the property bounded on the north by West 4^th Avenue is expected to be presented to council in the spring of 2022.