B.C. Residents Oppose Plans for New Museum

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Public opinion appears firmly opposed to the B.C. government's plan to spend $789 million rebuilding the Royal B.C. Museum in Victoria.

Almost 70 per cent of respondents to a recent Angus Reid Institute survey opposed the plan, while just 22 per cent supported it.

The non-profit public research foundation said the project is generating public frustration at a time when inflation is driving up the cost of food, housing and gasoline. At the same time, one in five residents cannot find a family physician.

"I think they've stepped in the glue on this one," said Shachi Kurl, president of the Angus Reid Institute. 

NDP Premier John Horgan has acknowledged his surprise announcement "landed with a thud." He argues the new museum is needed to address problems with the aging structure in a prime waterfront location next to the provincial legislature, including asbestos removal and upgrades to access.

Source: Angus Reid Instititute