Vancouver city council has approved the massive redevelopment of Oakridge Centre, saying it will bring more family and social housing to the city's Cambie corridor.
But critics have said the project will draw thousands of new people to the area but without the infrastructure to support them.
Mayor Gregor Robertson says a community centre, seniors' centre and park space will be created in the area that's been identified as a regional town centre.
Robertson says nearly 1.5 million people are expected to move to Metro Vancouver by 2040, and the redevelopment of a major hub will enable the city to manage future growth.