Plans for an overdose-prevention site at 900 Helmcken Street in downtown Vancouver have been put on hold following significant community feedback, Minister of Health Josie Osborne announced Wednesday. The decision comes after Osborne, along with Terry Yung, Minister of State for Community Safety and Integrated Services, heard concerns from the City of Vancouver, local businesses, and community partners.

Vancouver continues to face the highest rates of unregulated drug deaths in British Columbia, prompting the urgent need for life-saving services. Vancouver Coastal Health (VCH) had been working to establish overdose-prevention services in the downtown core, aiming to support vulnerable individuals while also considering the impact on surrounding businesses, residents, and workers.

In a statement released on May 27, 2026, Minister Osborne affirmed the Province's commitment to fully engage with stakeholders and the community before any new site opens. As a result, VCH will not proceed with the 900 Helmcken Street location at this time, and no new opening date has been set.

Despite this pause, the Province remains dedicated to collaborating with the City of Vancouver, local businesses, and community partners to ensure access to critical services. The mobile overdose-prevention site will continue to operate in the area, providing a limited number of services.