Vancouver Park Board approves beach chair and umbrella rental pilot project

The Vancouver Park Board has passed a motion allowing a private company to rent out beach chairs and umbrellas at one of the city's most iconic beaches.

The provider, operating under the name The Vancouver Shade Company, will rent out the beach equipment as part of a two-year pilot project.

"This is an opportunity to add a little bit of fun into recreation services in the city," said park board chair Sarah Kirby-Yung. "I think it would add a great element to what is a destination in Vancouver."

It would also bring additional income. As part of its agreement with the city, the company will be expected to pay outbetween 10 and 15 per cent of its revenues.

But Kirby-Yung said the park board's priority is to add value for Vancouver residents, adding that the pilot project would allow the board to gauge interest for the rentals.

The company may also provide other items, including beach toys and sunscreen.

The project is expected to run throughout the 2016 and 2017 summer seasons.Prices have yet to be finalizedbut would include options for hourly, halfday, full day and evening rentals.

According to the park board, the company, Blue Hole Investments, is a Canadian-owned hotel management provider that operates two "boutique hotels" in Central America.