Closures of numerous fishing canneries, coupled with the closure of the Skeena Cellulose Mill in 2001, have had negative effects on the economic health of Port Edward and Prince Rupert, In the last few years, however, the area has seen considerable interest by corporations needing facilities to export their products – coal, potash, grain, and LNG. Much of this planned development will occur in Port Edward, and nearby Ridley Island.
The largest potential LNG facility on Lelu Island in Port Edward – Pacific NorthWest LNG – could have as many as 4,000 workers during the construction phase. This is a significant change to the population, estimated at 544 in 2011 (Statistics Canada). The District rezoned properties to accommodate work camps located on either side of the District’s urban area.
In response to the changing resource economy, Northern Development Initiatives Trust (NDIT) initiated the preparation of the Port Edward Housing Action Plan, concurrent to the preparation of other Housing Action Plans in the region (Kitimat, Terrace, and Prince Rupert). The development of these plans were guided by a Steering Committee comprised of senior staff of the respective municipalities, BC Housing, and the Housing Policy Branch.
As part of the Port Edward Housing Action Plan, CitySpaces undertook consultation with stakeholders, municipalities, and realtors. Housing indicators were researched an analyzed, and housing needs and gaps were identified specific to the context of “low growth”, “moderate growth”, and “high growth” scenarios. Three deliverables were produced: evidence based needs report, stakeholder consultation report, and the Port Edward Housing Action Plan.
Five recommendations were prepared for the Port Edward Housing Action Plan, including establishing a Tenant Relocation Policy for manufactured home park redevelopments, and improved awareness programs to connect seniors to housing subsidies and grants. Other recommendations in the Port Edward Housing Action Plan include monitoring sales and housing market changes.
PROJECT TEAM:
Linda Allen Jada Basi Joanna Gauld