City councillors in Richmond, B.C., have approved a contentious proposal to build temporary housing for homeless people for the next five years.

The project, slated for 7300 Elmbridge Way in the Brighouse neighbourhood just off Westminster Highway, aims to provide 40 units of supportive housing and includes two meals a day, life-skills training and access to health services.

In a written statement, a city spokesperson said council voted Friday night to negotiate the lease with BC Housing for the city-owned property.

RainCity Housing will operate the facility once city staff negotiate the terms of the agreement and report back to council. 

The spokesperson said staff will also seek more