Summerland Sees Unprecedented Building Boom in 2025

Building activity in Summerland has surged in 2025, with the municipality issuing a total of 122 building permits by the end of July. These permits represent a remarkable total construction value of $81,524,652, marking the highest figure ever recorded for the area. In comparison, the previous record was set in 2021, when Summerland issued 203 permits valued at $59,775,300.

A standout project contributing significantly to this year’s figures is a building permit issued in June for a BC Housing apartment building located at 13609 Dickson Ave. This development, which replaces the former Legion Village, carries a construction value of $27,670,000 and will feature 90 residential units aimed at providing affordable housing for seniors. Offsite improvements associated with this project will include a sidewalk along the project’s frontage, enhancing connectivity between Dickson Avenue and Jubilee Road.

This marks the second BC Housing apartment building permit issued in Summerland this year. Earlier in February, a permit worth $24.2 million was granted for another housing project on Henry Avenue. Developed by Turning Points Collaborative Society, this project will be located at 13204 and 13214 Henry Ave., the former site of Summerland United Church. Additionally, in March, a permit worth $3.6 million was issued for a child care facility at Summerland Elementary School, which will accommodate 73 children.

Despite these significant projects, Brad Dollevoet, the director of development services for Summerland, noted that the volume of planning applications has not kept pace with previous years. He indicated that the real estate market has cooled considerably in 2023, with a high number of property listings contributing to this trend.

Dollevoet commented on the broader economic context affecting development, stating, “The threat of tariffs from south of the border has created more economic uncertainty, which has rippled into spending expectations of customers and also lending and investing decisions by banking institutions.” He added that these factors have tightened conditions for developers seeking financial approval for new projects.

As Summerland continues to experience a busy year for building permits, the municipality faces challenges that could shape the future of its construction landscape. The combination of high construction values and significant projects demonstrates a robust demand for housing, while economic uncertainties highlight the complexities of the current market environment.