Remaining CRAB Park residents told to pack up by next week

The remaining residents of Vancouver’s only legal encampment have been told that starting next week, they will no longer be able to shelter in the park in the daytime.

The city says people living in CRAB Park will be able to continue sheltering there overnight, but starting Nov. 7, the area will need to be cleared every morning by 8 a.m.

“Today’s confirmation of closure follows a week of consultation by parks staff, who have engaged daily with the seven remaining individuals in the park to discuss support and resources needed to support them through this transition,” the Vancouver Park Board said in a news release.

The park board says the remaining residents have been provided with housing, health, and income supports, as well as transition plans.

“To support transition, reserved shelter spaces will be available for any remaining individuals on Nov. 7,” it said.

“Those who choose not to transition indoors may shelter overnight in CRAB Park, provided structures are taken down each morning by 8 a.m., as required by the Parks Control Bylaw.”

The board says this is part of a plan to return the park to use by the general community.

With files from David Nadalini.