'Rare opportunity': Former New West penitentiary relisted for sale after sizable price drop

Jun 25 2025, 9:11 pm

A former New West penitentiary has been relisted for sale after a pretty significant price drop.

We’ve reported on 319 Governors Court several times now, and in December 2023, the property was listed for $5,830,000.

Now, in a relisting earlier this week, the price has decreased by nearly $1 million, and the former New West penitentiary is now listed for $4,999,000. BC Assessment values the property at $5,027,000, with a significant portion of that ($3,150,000) attributed to the land.

On that front, there’s a massive amount of land available, totalling 47,876 sq. ft. The listing offers some interesting details about the potential future of the property.

new west

Re/Max City Realty

“Own a piece of local history with the iconic ‘Landmark Building,’ formerly the B.C. Penitentiary,” Re/Max City Realty’s listing states.

It adds that the property offers exceptional potential for future mixed-use redevelopment and provides a couple of examples of what buyers can do with the space.

new west penitentiary

Re/Max City Realty

Some of the potential options include ground-floor retail or daycare, along with residential space, which would need to be verified by the City of New Westminster.

new west penitentiary

Re/Max City Realty

The building hasn’t gone unused. It’s currently tenanted and a fully licensed restaurant, the Notorious Grey Fox Taps & Patio, operates within it on the lower level. The upper level has also been leased.

new west penitentiary

Re/Max City Realty

“Modern upgrades completed in 1989 include mechanical, electrical, and full sprinkler systems — move-in ready with no major capital expenses required,” the listing notes.

The property features 40 on-site parking stalls, with room for potential expansion.

“This is a rare opportunity to secure a trophy asset with strong holding income, future upside, and undeniable character. A true gem for investors or visionary developers,” Re/Max says.

Want to stay on top of all things Vancouver? Follow us on X

GET MORE URBANIZED NEWS

By signing up, you agree to receive email newsletters from Daily Hive.

You can unsubscribe at any time by clicking “unsubscribe” at the bottom of the email.

Daily Hive is a division of ZoomerMedia Limited, 70 Jefferson Avenue, Toronto ON M6K 3H4.

ADVERTISEMENT