Chaleur Region Will Need New Housing by 2026
Chaleur Region Will Need New Housing by 2026
Bathurst, April 18, 2024 – During yesterday’s regular meeting of the Chaleur Regional Service Commission (CRSC), Imagine Chaleur presented the results of its housing needs assessment. The data from this work is intended to guide its community members in the course of their future development.
The study, which began in January 2024, revealed that despite a period of demographic decline during the 1980s, the region is currently experiencing an increase in population. "The projections indicate that the city of Bathurst will need 330 new housing units by 2026, and 178 for the rest of the Chaleur region," according to Ms. Shirley de Silva, Director of Imagine Chaleur. "These units will be necessary to cope with the massive influx of newcomers recruited to fill the current labour shortage, as well as the growing demand for housing suitable for the elderly," she added.
To address these challenges, the study proposes recommendations, such as the construction of housing for students within walking distance of the campus, the construction of affordable rental housing near employment centres and urban centres, the acceleration of renovations, and the replacement of the current aging housing stock to make existing homes more suitable.
"The data we have collected provide a robust foundation upon which our municipalities can rely to develop their strategies. We aspire for our region to adopt a proactive approach, enhancing its attractiveness, motivation, and dynamism." concluded Ms. de Silva.
About Imagine Chaleur
Imagine Chaleur is the flagship brand of the CRSC's Economic Development Office, strategically positioning itself as a catalyst for regional economic development. This organization is committed to empowering businesses of the Chaleur region by providing access to the essential data and resources vital for their success.