The economic situation in Northwestern British Columbia improved considerably between 2010 and 2014 as new major industrial projects have been proposed – hydro transmission lines, pipelines, LNG facilities, mines and container ports. Some projects are underway, and some await environmental approvals and final investment decisions. These initiatives have been a major drive of new development activity in the region.
Changes to the resource industry has impacted the housing market in this region. From a market housing perspective, Prince Rupert did not experience significant increase in housing demand compared to Terrace and Kitimat, either in rental or homeowner accommodation. However, if one or more of the planned LNG projects goes ahead, it is possible that the same type of market destabilization in Terrace and Kitimat could happen in Prince Rupert. This could lead to higher home prices and rents, the latter potentially resulting in “renovictions”, or redevelopment of older residential properties. Particular concerns are for low and fixed-income renters, and people with special needs.
In response to the changing resource economy, Northern Development Initiatives Trust (NDIT) initiated the preparation of the Prince Rupert Housing Action Plan, concurrent to the preparation of other Housing Action Plans in the region (Kitimat, Terrace, and Port Edward). The development of these plans were guided by a Steering Committee comprised of senior staff of the respective municipalities, BC Housing, and the Housing Policy Branch.
As part of the Prince Rupert Housing Action Plan, CitySpaces undertook extensive consultation with stakeholders, municipalities, builders and realtors. Housing indicators were researched an analyzed, and housing needs and gaps were identified specific to the context of “low growth”, “moderate growth”, and “high growth” scenarios. Three deliverables were produced: evidence based needs report, stakeholder consultation report, and the Prince Rupert Housing Action Plan.
Seventeen recommendations were prepared for the Prince Rupert Housing Action Plan. Responsibility for implementation was outlined for the municipality, the Province, agencies, and community-based organizations. The Prince Rupert Housing Action Plan recommendations included a call to fund more shelter beds for women and children fleeing violence, more shelter beds for men, and an increase of more 3+ bedroom rental units to accommodate larger families.
A Standards of Maintenance Bylaw was also recommended for the Prince Rupert Housing Action Plan to address the poor condition and quality of market rental housing.
PROJECT TEAM:
Linda Allen Jada Basi Joanna Gauld