Overview
Housing needs reports are a way for communities to better understand their current and future housing needs. These reports can help identify existing and projected gaps in housing supply by collecting and analyzing quantitative and qualitative information about local demographics, economics, housing stock, and other factors. A housing needs report is critical to developing a housing strategy or action plan. Lean more about the legislation and background of housing needs reports through BC Government's Website.
As official community plans are reviewed and updated, the CRD will consider the recommendations of housing needs reports and the implications they have on how we plan communities, neighbourhoods, and developments in rural areas. The types of land use regulations we may consider are set out under Part 14 of the Local Government Act and include land use designation, policy statements and objectives, development regulations, and various form, character, and use requirements.
South Cariboo
The District of 100 Mile House and the Cariboo Regional District (CRD) partnered up to undertake a South Cariboo Housing Needs Assessment (HNA).
The areas considered in this HNA included the District of 100 Mile House and CRD Electoral Area G (Lac La Hache / 108 Mile Ranch), Electoral Area H (Canim Lake / Forest Grove), and Electoral Area L (Lone Butte / Interlakes).
Through analysis of Canadian Census data, real estate statistics, local data, key informants, public meetings and an online survey the final report presented showcases challenges and potential recommendations for the area.
Central Cariboo
The City of Williams Lake has focused on addressing local housing issues for several years. In 2012 and 2014, housing need and demand assessments were completed to identify gaps in housing supply. This awareness has supported several housing projects, including the delivery of new affordable housing projects.
In 2020, the City of Williams Lake and Cariboo Regional District conducted a housing study; expanding the jurisdictional scope to include the “Central Cariboo” communities of McLeese Lake, Anahim Lake, Nimpo Lake, Tatla Lake, Alexis Creek, Riske Creek, Likely, and Horsefly. This study also meets legislative requirements for local governments to prepare a Housing Needs Assessment.
North Cariboo
Based on the assessment, Quesnel is facing high demand for housing for a variety of housing types in the near, medium, and longer term. The projections indicate a net demand of nearly 450 housing units by 2031, largely for seniors.
Housing projects that offer mixed use and adapt to changing demographics over the longer term are especially important. Downtown apartments offer appealing housing options for seniors and young professionals. Offering a mix of affordable units and higher end units also supports a varied and healthy mix of housing options responsive to changing economic conditions.
Quesnel: Housing Needs Assessment, Gap Analysis and Action Plan