Bowen Island Resilient Community Housing Society (BIRCH) Announces Ground Breaking of Hemlock Hill Village – A New Affordable Housing Development on Bowen Island
Bowen Island Resilient Community Housing Society (BIRCH) and Lookout Housing and Health Society (Lookout) are proud to announce the official ground breaking of Hemlock Hill Village, a new affordable housing development at 1033 Miller Road, taking place at 2pm on May 29, 2026. The project name is inspired by the neighbourhood as it once appeared on early local maps.
This 25-unit mixed market affordable housing project represents a significant step forward in addressing Bowen Island’s need for accessible rental housing. With strong support from the Municipality of Bowen Island, BC Housing, and community members, Hemlock Hill Village will provide much needed homes while strengthening community connection.
Twenty-five thoughtfully designed homes will include studios, one bedroom, two bedroom, and three bedroom units to meet diverse housing needs. Community focused features include an open courtyard, amenity spaces, and exterior corridors designed to encourage connection among residents and neighbours. Lookout will operate the building, bringing over 50 years of experience managing safe and affordable housing with supportive services.
“This is an important milestone in addressing the need for affordable housing on Bowen Island,” said David McCullum, Board Chair of BIRCH. “We are proud to reach this stage and grateful for the support of our partners who have made this project possible.”
“We are proud to see Hemlock Hill Village move into construction,” said Shayne Williams, CEO of Lookout. “This development reflects what is possible when community, government, and non-profit partners come together with a shared commitment to creating safe and inclusive housing.”
BIRCH and Lookout extend special thanks to the Municipality of Bowen Island and BC Housing for their leadership and support in advancing this project.
BIRCH and Lookout continue to work closely with BC Housing, CitySpaces Consulting, Converge Construction, and Boni Maddison Architects as construction begins.
