It seems the crunch to complete housing projects quickly is actually more problematic than creating solutions.
Some are being subjected to shoddy construction, possibly because of the rush to meet demand. And then, despite all the Official Community Plan emphasis in recent years, how some of these new buildings fit into neighbourhoods leaves a lot to be desired.
This is particularly true in the south end of the municipality heading into Duncan and in the city itself where buildings have sprung up all over the place, creating an unsightly sort of skyline. The density has changed dramatically in those areas that’s not the best situation.
The big question still remains. Where are all the people coming from to instantly fill those buildings?
Under the so-called affordable housing banner, it appears a lot of people are making a lateral move. The homeless certainly aren’t being housed in these buildings. The homeless are still homeless in the Cowichan Valley and there’s no noticeable decrease in their numbers.
On top of everything else, the rapid go-ahead for some projects fails to take two important factors into consideration; namely, water and the environment. We still have only a finite amount of water so how much more can we tap from the supply?
Ironically, in Chemainus, two long-standing housing projects remain stalled. It was thought the old Chemainus Elementary School site and the open lot next to the library would have been developed long ago.
At the same time, the modular home park on the Trans-Canada Highway and Chris Clement’s development behind the giant archway are both going great guns.
What Chemainus really needs to maintain its rural character is nothing like the buildings outside of Duncan, but more like the Cottages On Willow completed by former North Cowichan Mayor Jon Lefebure in late 2020.
Smaller units in a lot close to town are more practical and can accommodate seniors or single persons more readily who won’t necessarily need a car much to get around.
Unfortunately, these are few and far between at communities around the province. BC Housing is on a mission to build, but not necessarily with a cohesive plan.
@chemainusnews
don.bodger@chemainusvalleycourier.ca
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