On July 2, 2024, to address housing concerns, the Government of Canada and the City of Brandon, Manitoba reached an agreement under the Housing Accelerator Fund (HAF) to expedite the construction of 168 homes within the next three years and pave the way for over 761 additional homes over the next decade. The $6.2 million funding package will help eliminate barriers to housing development and encourage affordable, higher-density housing.
The Housing Accelerator Fund, a part of Canada’s National Housing Strategy, aims to streamline and expedite the approval process for new housing projects across the country. Launched in March 2023, the $4 billion initiative is targeted at enabling faster construction of new homes. By 2027, HAF aims to facilitate the construction of at least 100,000 new homes, contributing to a projected total of 750,000 new homes by 2034. The fund also encourages local governments to develop bold and innovative action plans, providing upfront funding and additional support upon successful implementation.
Brandon’s Action Plan
Brandon’s Action Plan under the HAF includes several key initiatives.
The city will implement zoning amendments to allow the construction of four-unit buildings as-of-right in traditionally low-density areas. This shift will facilitate a more diverse range of housing options and address the increasing demand for higher-density living spaces.
A new housing liaison role will be established to foster collaboration between nonprofit and for-profit developers. This liaison will play a crucial part in aligning the city’s housing development goals with the capabilities and interests of various stakeholders.
The city plans to introduce financial incentives aimed at encouraging the development of affordable housing. These incentives will make it more economically viable for developers to include affordable units in their projects, thereby increasing the availability of such homes. To promote the construction of smaller, affordable housing units, the city will offer density bonuses. These bonuses will allow developers to build more units than typically permitted, provided they include affordable housing options.
The city’s new plan will support intensification and increased density in established areas, particularly those close to transit, schools, and commercial centers. This strategy will enhance urban growth while ensuring accessibility and convenience for residents.
The city will review and update the timing of development charges as part of its broader development strategy. This update aims to align charges more closely with the actual timing of development, reducing financial burdens on builders during early project stages.
Brandon will prioritize land acquisition for both affordable and market housing to ensure suitable land is available for development, accelerating growth in key areas.