Northumberland County Council will review a proposal, at its August 14th meeting, for the expansion of affordable housing at 123 King Street East, Colborne, based on a recommendation coming forward from today’s Social Services Committee meeting. Having heard a presentation from the Northumberland County Housing Corporation (NCHC), the Committee will recommend that County Council approve the release of funds for NCHC to proceed with preliminary designs for the redevelopment of rental units at this location.
The County, in partnership with NCHC, purchased the 123 King St. East property in 2023, when it came up for sale, to preserve the local stock of deeply affordable housing in Colborne. The redevelopment proposal is for construction of up to 60 units at this location – 38 more than currently onsite – to address the escalating need for affordable and attainable housing in Northumberland. The new units will be a mix of Rent-Geared-to-Income and market rent housing, serving individuals with low to moderate incomes, including seniors and persons with special needs.
The release of funds being recommended by the Social Services Committee will support pre-construction activities, including preparing a building design and budget. The redevelopment will aim to replace the 22 aging rental units currently on site, while increasing density. A phased approach to construction will ensure current tenants are able to continue living in their existing units until the new units are built, at which time all tenants in good standing will transition to the new accommodations.
“The approval of funds for preliminary planning for the King Street redevelopment will be a critical milestone in our ongoing efforts to increase the stock of affordable housing in Northumberland,” remarks NCHC Chair Victor Fiume. “This effort will not only enable us to replace aging units for the benefit of current tenants but also expand the number of affordable rental units available, meeting broader community need. As the largest provider of community housing in Northumberland, the NCHC continues to assess new opportunities to sustain and increase affordable housing options, building a stronger, more inclusive community.”
Throughout Northumberland, there is a growing demand for housing supports. Northumberland residents face one of the lowest rental vacancy rates in Ontario, at just one percent, and higher rental costs compared to neighbouring communities. An initial feasibility study at 123 King Street East determined the site could support construction of up to 4 three-story buildings. The new development will offer a variety of unit types, including smaller and larger apartments to accommodate different needs.
For more information about NCHC and their services, visit Northumberland.ca/NCHC.
Author: Pete Fisher
Has been a photojournalist for over 30-years and have been honoured to win numerous awards for photography and writing over the years. Best selling author for the book Highway of Heroes - True Patriot Love
