Western Vancouver is losing one of its gas stations.
The Esso at 3205 Arbutus St., at the intersection with West 16th Avenue, has closed as a new development moves forward in that location. The phone number has already been disconnected.
The corner has had a gas station and convenience store for a long time; a 1949 directory lists a service station at that address. The current station was built in 2001.
It was one of the few gas stations in the western half of Vancouver, only three other stations are further west in the city, while two others are also on Arbutus Street. Gas stations have been closing globally, especially in North America, as electric vehicles and hybrids mean there's decreased demand for gasoline.
The Esso station is being shuttered due to a new development planned for the property.
In April, a four-storey mixed-use building was approved by city council for the spot; it will bring 54 rental units to the neighbourhood. Drawings of the new development show four new retail spaces as well, at ground level.
