BC government buildings in Kamloops to be demolished for housing

Two BC government buildings in Kamloops are soon to be flattened as the province plans to replace them with housing.

The two structures will be demolished by September within the area known as the Columbia Precinct. Exactly what will replace them isn't clear, but BC Housing put out a call for demolition contractors Monday morning, April 29.

City officials have been lobbying for the province to level its ageing office buildings and warehouses in the area for years, especially recently as the province puts pressure on municipalities to get more housing built.

On the southern edge of downtown Kamloops, the Columbia Precinct abuts Peterson Creek Park and Royal Inland Hospital. It includes offices for the Ministry of Forests, Citizens' Services and Transportation, along with the courthouse and Interior Health offices.

BC Housing announced a plan to redevelop the nearby Glenfair seniors complex last year, but the Crown agency is now expanding its redevelopment of the area.

A BC Housing spokesperson wasn't immediately able to provide more details on plans for the area.

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