A proposed Development Variance Permit for constructing an inflatable sports bubble at 1735 Inglewood Avenue is set to go before Council for consideration tomorrow. The project, spearheaded by the West Vancouver Football Club (WVFC) in partnership with West Vancouver Secondary School, aims to enhance year-round sports opportunities while integrating seamlessly with the ongoing “Place for Sport” project.
Proposal Variances
The Development Variance Permit seeks to allow height and location variances for the sports bubble, which will be located on a currently unused gravel field at the site’s northwest corner. The site is part of a larger parcel that includes the West Vancouver Secondary School campuses and Kay Meek Centre, zoned PA1 and owned by the West Vancouver School District.
The Development Variance Permit seeks to address two key variances required for the project:
Building Height Variance– The proposed structure exceeds the maximum permitted height of 9.1 meters, reaching 12.06 meters. The additional 2.96 meters are necessary to accommodate the sports bubble’s design and functionality.
Multiple Legal Lots – The structure will straddle property lines across four legal lots. The variance would waive the requirement for a legal covenant to prevent the transfer of ownership unless the building and use comply with zoning regulations for the new site.
The proposed dome would be the first indoor turf field in West Vancouver. The bubble will serve students during school hours, while WVFC plans to utilize the space during evenings, weekends, holidays, and school closures. The dome will feature alternating light and dark tones inspired by the natural surroundings and a semi-translucent spine to allow natural light. A report to the council notes that landscaping efforts and a carefully selected colour scheme will ensure the structure blends harmoniously with the environment.
Although a separate initiative, the bubble is designed to complement the new track and artificial turf field being constructed as part of the “Place for Sport” project. The report notes that natural barriers, including mature trees and sloping topography, will obscure views of the dome from surrounding streets and residences. The structure will be slightly taller than the adjacent retaining walls currently under construction, but its design will soften the visual impact of the site’s hardscaping.
Parking accommodations include 96 spaces in an adjacent lot shared with the Kay Meek Centre, a “drop-off only” zone, and additional spaces on nearby streets and lots. The proponents emphasize that most users will walk to the facility during school hours, minimizing traffic impacts. Staff have recommended advancing the project for Council consideration, citing its thoughtful design, minimal neighbourhood disruption, and alignment with community sports needs. A public consultation will be held before final approval.
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