VANCOUVER – New Democrat leader John Horgan released the following statement on the passing of architect Bing Thom:

“My condolences go out to the family, friends and colleagues of Bing Thom, a great Canadian and a great architect, who died today while visiting Hong Kong.

“Bing Thom created architecture that, in his own words ‘touches and inspires life.’ The Central City tower and galleria in partnership with Simon Fraser University played a key role in the revitalization of Surrey’s downtown core. The Aberdeen Centre mall stands as a beautiful lantern in bustling Richmond. And the Chan Centre for the Performing Arts brings joy to artists and audiences alike. These, along with his many other projects, will continue to touch people’s lives far into the future.

“Bing Thom enriched and improved his adopted country and his work helped transform communities around Canada and the world. I was pleased to talk with him just this summer about the current issues of housing and immigration and what the future can hold for us all.

“The beauty and civic sense of place he created will be his legacy and the challenge he leaves for the next generation. My condolences to his wife Bonnie and his family. He will be missed.”