West Vancouver residents are facing longer wait times for ambulance services following the closure of the local ambulance station, Station 255, due to its dilapidated condition. The station, located on Fulton Avenue near City Hall, has been deemed uninhabitable by paramedics because of rot and mould.
Current Situation
- Temporary Relocation: Since December, paramedics have been operating out of Lions Gate Hospital in neighboring North Vancouver, which has increased travel distances for emergency responders.
- Mayor’s Statement: Mayor Mark Sager emphasized the need for emergency responder facilities to meet certain standards and has requested city council to consider demolishing Station 255 and replacing it with a new facility. A temporary solution may involve using another location, such as a fire hall, until permanent arrangements can be made.
Community Concerns
Residents have raised concerns about service wait times due to the increased travel distances required for emergency responses in West Vancouver.
- High Demand Areas: The situation is particularly concerning in affluent communities like Dundarave and Ambleside, which experience high demand for emergency services during peak hours.
- Resident Feedback: Carolyn Taylor, a resident of Dundarave, expressed her support for relocating the ambulance service closer to the community, noting that some people have avoided going to hospitals due to long wait times. She stated, "It’s just not good enough for our community."
Broader Context
The closure of Station 255 is part of a larger trend, as several other stations across Metro Vancouver have also closed or relocated due to maintenance issues or lack of space.
- Recent Closures:
- In November, BC Emergency Health Services (BCEHS) announced plans to relocate its Surrey headquarters from Guildford Centre Mall after discovering asbestos contamination.
- In October, two ambulances were temporarily moved from Langley Memorial Hospital’s parking lot due to safety hazards caused by uneven pavement.
- Last week, the Burnaby Fire Department announced it would not have sufficient personnel to maintain its Ambulance Division station on Lakeview Drive, leading to its permanent closure.
Conclusion
The ongoing closures and relocations of ambulance stations in Metro Vancouver raise significant concerns about service levels in the community. Mayor Sager and local residents are advocating for immediate action to ensure that emergency services can effectively meet the needs of West Vancouver’s population.
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