
Map of proposed site of new BC Housing project on Fortune Drive/via BC Housing Let's Talk
The BC government has announced the purchase of a plot of land on the Kamloops North Shore for low income housing.
“The Province, through BC Housing, is planning to purchase the site at 285 Leigh Rd. to provide additional supportive housing options for the community,” said the Province in a news release sent out on Thursday afternoon. “As a purpose-built supportive housing project, the proposed building would include 54 studio homes, 24/7 staffing, security measures, and space to provide meals and support services for residents.”
The site at 285 Leigh Road is a personal residence.
However, the BC Housing Let’s Talk page on the proposal indicates the province intends to purchase two other parcels of land at 321 and 327 Fortune, along with 285 Leigh Road, which was not mentioned in the news release from Housing Ministry.
“At this site, we plan to create 54 homes with support services. These new homes are an important part of our continued effort to address and prevent homelessness in the community,” stated BC Housing on its Let’s Talk page.
“BC Housing has applied to rezone this site from Residential 2 (R2) to Multi-Family 4 – Medium High Density (RM4),” continues the statement. “The site purchase is dependent on this rezoning. If approved, we will continue to follow the City’s permitting processes throughout this project.”
BC Housing says it will share a project timeline when it is available, including when we expect construction to start in the “years ahead.”
However, the government news release is more specific with its timelines.
“Further details regarding the purchase price will be available if the rezoning application is approved and the sale is completed,” said the news release. “If approved, the project will begin construction in mid-2025.”