Habitat for Humanity announces new project in Saanich

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More affordable housing units will soon be available in Saanich, as Habitat for Humanity is set to begin work on a new townhouse complex in North Quadra.

The municipality identified a piece of surplus land at 4000 Cedar Hill Cross Rd. that would make for a good location for the next Habitat project, said Mayor Frank Leonard.

"Council has been very supportive of Habitat over the years, we've done other projects with them, so we have our radar up that when something comes up as surplus (property) we make them aware of it," he said.

While the plan is still in its conceptual phase, Leonard says the housing will follow a Flex-Plex model: townhouse units with legal secondary suites in the basement.

"This is part of our affordable housing strategy. We also find this is a good model because it provides affordable housing with an equity opportunity for families," Leonard said.

David McLean, chair of the Habitat for Humanity Victoria board, says their organization is thrilled to be working in Saanich again.

"Habitat Victoria's last two builds, a duplex and a five-plex, were both in Saanich and we have an excellent working relationship with the council and staff," he said. There are a total of eight Habitat projects already constructed in Saanich.

Habitat for Humanity will still have to present its design and plans to Saanich council for approval before construction can begin.

Low-income families selected for a Habitat home must put in 500 hours of labour building the structure, and are sold the house through an interest-free mortgage.

For more information on Habitat for Humanity, visit habitatvictoria.com.

kslavin@saanichnews.com