"Neighbourhood design, street design, building designs are all actually really important components of helping people achieve the behaviour changes they're trying to make," Dr. Karen Lee said.

One of Vancouver's most iconic neighbourhoods is set for some major changes but not everyone is on board with the city's ambitious plan for Grandview Woodland.

New research shows people living in Metro Vancouver's most 'walkable' neighbourhoods are 31 per cent less likely to be overweight than those living in car-dependent areas.