February 1, 2026 Closure Date Announced
The Gastown Residents Association has expressed disappointment following news that London Drugs will close its Woodward’s location after nearly 20 years of serving the community.
GRA President Brian Davie noted that the pharmacy was the neighborhood’s sole full-service drugstore and also hosted the area’s only Canada Post outlet, serving thousands of local residents.
Community Safety Concerns Persist
According to the retailer, the decision stems from ongoing security challenges and financial losses exceeding $10 million since 2009, despite cooperation with Vancouver Police Department patrols and safety initiatives.
When asked about safety in the neighborhood, Davie responded that residents continue to have concerns, though recent municipal policing efforts have shown some improvement. He emphasized that lasting change requires faster implementation of provincial treatment programs and judicial reform regarding repeat offenders.
What This Means for Gastown
Following the TD Bank’s 2024 departure from the same building, this closure leaves Nester’s Market as Woodward’s primary retail anchor. The GRA has raised concerns about potential impacts on the Woodward’s Atrium, which serves as a community meeting space.
The Association is calling for greater urgency from provincial and federal governments in addressing addiction and related issues affecting the neighborhood’s vitality.
Source: Based on reporting by Daniel Chai, Daily Hive Urbanized, January 15, 2026
Read the full article: Daily Hive – Vancouver residents decry lack of government action after London Drugs closure