A group of over a dozen developers in the Waterloo region have come together to advocate for policies and initiatives that will facilitate new home construction across the area.
Known as Build Urban, this collective voice champions efficient land use, responsible growth, and streamlined approval processes. The group aims to collaborate closely with municipal governments and stakeholders to overcome barriers to construction and speed up the creation of new homes in the region.
Their focus includes key policy issues such as inclusionary zoning and planning frameworks around major transit station areas. Build Urban provides insights, expertise, and practical solutions to affordable housing, intensification, and land use planning during the consultation process.
“We are facing a housing crisis, and it is essential for local governments, the development industry, and other stakeholders to work together to accelerate the construction of new homes,” says Melissa Durrell, CEO of Durrell Communications and spokesperson for Build Urban.
“The development industry has valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities, and by collaborating, we can find tangible solutions to address the urgent need for housing in our region.”
Expected population growth means changes are necessary to increase the number of homes available for residents
The region’s 10-year housing target is 70,000 new homes by 2031, requiring an average of over 7,500 annual housing starts in Kitchener, Cambridge, and Waterloo for the next eight years.
However, the tri-city municipalities reported under 4,800 housing starts in 2023. With Waterloo’s projected population growth to 923,000 by 2051, it is evident that changes are needed to increase the housing options for residents.
“Addressing the housing crisis requires a collaborative effort,” says Durrell. “Build Urban is dedicated to assisting the region in meeting these housing targets by providing expertise, evidence-based policy recommendations, and support to ensure that enough homes are built to accommodate the growing population.”
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