Greater Victoria municipalities fall short on housing supply: report
CTV
As the population on southern Vancouver Island continues to grow, housing supply is not keeping up with demand and rents are going up.
“In Oak Bay, they’ve only approved three new units since the new municipality was elected years ago,” said Philip MacKellar from housing affordability advocacy group, Homes For Living.
New data released by the group shows that Oak Bay finished last when it came to housing units built to meet the estimated annual need.
“There are gaps in the housing in Oak Bay and council has recognized that,” said Oak Bay Mayor Kevin Murdoch. He says that is going to change in the coming years.
Council is in public consultation to develop a strategic plan on infill housing.
“Infill housing is things like duplexes, triplexes, townhouses and other housing forms that can exist within single-family neighbourhoods and complement them,” said Murdoch.
Once that is complete, the focus will turn towards the major corridors like Oak Bay Avenue and Cadboro Bay Road. The mayor says those areas are appropriate for multi-family dwellings.
There seemed to be buy-in from people enjoying the day along Oak Bay Avenue on Tuesday.
“I think it’s a good idea,” said Greg Clarke. “It will support more public transit and more amenities.”
