Housing Needs Report shows lack of accommodation in Barriere

Photo: Credit to District of Barriere website

A new report shows Barriere and surrounding areas are in need of housing

The community of Barriere is dealing with a lack of rental apartment units, according to a housing needs report that went before council earlier this month.

The report, funded by a $15,000 grant from the Union of BC Municipalities, compiles research from the area based on a survey sent to each household.  

The following the report's key findings:

The region is currently in need of 45 apartment units (0-3 bedroom), it's anticipated that in 5 years it will be in need of 225 units.

According to the report, the Barriere area has not seen substantial growth but it lacks the type of housing that residents need.

As a result of the lack of units, seniors are living in larger homes and families are unable to move to the area because those larger homes are occupied.

Single-person households represent 30 per cent of the population and there are only 15 bachelor suites in the region.

It also states that Barriere is in need of more affordable housing options.  Currently, there is only one small subsidized housing complex. 

There are only 195 units of 1,380 apartments that accommodate renters.  

An important aspect of the Barriere Housing Needs Report is more than one demographic in need of housing.

The greatest need is for low income families, low income disabled households and low income seniors. However, the need for a variety of housing exists in Barriere for families and seniors that do not require assistance as well.  

In addition, the resident survey indicated that people living in Barriere are finding pet friendly living spaces hard to find.

The report was concluded with a suggested resolution for the areas of need: To develop a complex that would supply housing for all of these segmented groups.

Read the full District of Barriere Housing report HERE.