Anchor reader thoughts: the Anvil Centre

Editor’s note: for those who are unfamiliar with why we’re talking about the utilization of the Anvil Centre, you’ll want to take a look at this piece before you keep reading.

What could the future of the Anvil Centre hold? Is it perfect as is? Does the space need more programming? Less?

We asked Anchor subscribers what they’d like to see more of in light of a council workshop expected to take place near the end of August. Here’s what some of our readers had to say about the Anvil Centre in its current state. 👇

“[It offers] some good stuff but it’s just not very connected … I live nearby and love the arts …yet in the past years [I] just went there a few times to get vaccinated. It’s not very welcoming. [I’d] like to see it more open and community oriented instead of being so aloof and [business-oriented].” jmocurran

“Seems like it’s a beautiful new building, and nobody’s using it to [its] potential.” Theresa

“I enjoy the parks and rec programming, the museum. I'm not sure how well the bottom floor and theatre are used, although they're great resources.” alarobric

“Not used to full capacity. City should not set agenda as to shows. More variety, partner with theatre company—Arts Club, [Vancouver] Play House, [Bard] on the beach. Partner with local wedding industry and have wedding expo with more weddings, grads, family and ethnic celebrations. Make some money.” obrito4

“It would be better if it was more heavily used, but I've enjoyed many events that were held there since it was built.” NWA (please note: this is The Anchor user’s name, and not us!)

“Please don't change the New Media Gallery or the music. I don't need another sports centre (yes, I do need more swimming). I need culture and arts nearby. (I'd also love to see community kitchens and a place with sewing tables, but not at the expense of losing anything at Anvil Centre.)” leechenier

“Could have more programming! The new media gallery has always been straight fire though.” sashavanme

“It is a really unattractive building with not the greatest space use on the inside. It is okay for small trade shows and was great for vaccinations but very under utilized. The outside reminds me of a shower with the glass and floor tiles in the outside. It could have been made to be in keeping with the older buildings in the neighborhood so that we keep earning filming income. It’s a shame and I feel bad looking at it.” adelekafer50

“Looks nice from the outside, never stepped foot inside except to get my vaccine. Don't even know what goes on inside the Anvil center and why it was even built.” cst.fong

“There isn't a community centre or a library branch downtown New West. Why aren't we using the Anvil Centre for that, for more classes... it appears to not be used very frequently by the community (other than the archives, museum and the kids tech lab). ” jenbaetz

“Council [has] been talking about what to do with the Anvil for at least six years. I am not holding my breath for any changes.” Garry S.

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