The City of Langley is advocating for changes to federal airspace regulations that are preventing the construction of taller buildings, as stated by Mayor Nathan Pachal. With new SkyTrain stations and a growing population on the horizon, Pachal emphasizes the importance of maximizing housing development near upcoming transit areas.
Current regulations restrict buildings to around 15 storeys, but provincial housing requirements mandate a minimum of 20 storeys for new constructions within 200 metres of SkyTrain stations. Mayor Pachal highlights that despite federal investments in SkyTrain infrastructure, the city’s building potential is constrained by outdated airspace rules established in the 1970s.
The Langley Regional Airport, situated just over three kilometres from the city center, enforces zoning regulations from the 1970s that prohibit structures exceeding 150 feet within its jurisdiction. To address this issue, Pachal and other Langley city councillors engaged with federal officials in Ottawa, where discussions were described as constructive.
Mayor Pachal expressed optimism following the meetings, noting a shift towards a more practical, hazard-based approach to height restrictions rather than clinging to outdated regulations. While Transport Canada confirmed no formal submissions from Langley City regarding airspace regulation adjustments, they pledged to review any proposals in collaboration with city officials.
Transport Canada is currently reassessing airport zoning rules to align better with International Civil Aviation Organization standards and modern flight procedures. Langley, with a footprint of approximately 10 square kilometres and a population exceeding 35,000, is viewed as a “compact community” by Cory Redekop, CEO of the Greater Langley Chamber of Commerce, emphasizing the necessity for vertical development.
Mayor Eric Woodward of the Township of Langley, where the airport is situated, expressed support for Langley City’s endeavors to modify airspace regulations. While the township’s urban area is minimally impacted by airspace restrictions compared to the city, efforts are underway to explore potential relaxations of regulations near the upcoming SkyTrain station area.