White Rock Housing Units Surge, Aims to Meet Provincial Targets

UPDATE: White Rock is making significant strides towards its housing goals, with the city reporting the creation of 133 housing units in the last year, just over 70.4% of its mandated target. This announcement comes as city officials reveal a pipeline of applications that could help meet future targets.

During a council meeting on July 21, 2024, Director of Planning and Development Services Anne Berry presented a progress report highlighting the city’s efforts under the provincially mandated housing order that took effect on July 1, 2023. The order aims to bolster housing supply amid increasing demand across the province.

Berry confirmed that 189 units were set as the target for the first year, but White Rock fell short by 56 units. The total reported includes occupancy permits issued for completed units, with the majority stemming from the 97-unit Monaco development at 1350 Johnston Rd.

While the city created 169 units within the year, the demolition of 36 units to make way for new developments resulted in the adjusted figure of 133. Berry emphasized the importance of the ongoing housing crisis, stating, “We expect that by the end of year two, we will actually meet the housing target required for year two, which is 387 units, combining year one and two.”

Looking ahead, the province has mandated that a minimum of 1,067 new housing units be completed by June 30, 2029. Berry noted that 457 residential units have received conditional approval, indicating a strong development pipeline. This includes 67 approved building permit applications still in progress, potentially leading to an estimated 375 new units in the coming years.

As of now, there are also 78 in-stream applications that could further boost the housing numbers if they receive timely approvals. The council voted to receive Berry’s report, directing staff to forward the findings to the provincial government’s housing target branch, showcasing White Rock’s commitment to addressing housing needs.

The urgency of the housing situation in White Rock reflects broader trends seen across the province, where demand continues to outstrip supply. Local residents and officials alike await the outcomes of ongoing applications that could significantly impact the community’s housing landscape.

For more information, the full report is available on the city’s webpage. As developments unfold, residents are encouraged to stay informed about upcoming housing projects and the anticipated increase in available units.