Matt Thompson : “Maple Ridge Housing Needs: City Update”

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In a recent meeting, Maple Ridge council members discussed the city’s role in providing housing, with a focus on taking a more active approach to addressing the current housing crisis. The City of Maple Ridge is in the process of updating its Housing Needs Report, a plan mandated by the provincial government that outlines strategies for the next five years to tackle the issue of housing affordability for both renters and buyers.

Interim Results Revealed

During the meeting on February 27, Matt Thompson from consultant Urban Matters presented the council with interim results from the Housing Needs Report. One of the key takeaways was the city’s significant growth, with a 10.6% increase in population between 2016 and 2021, exceeding the regional growth rate.

Housing Trends and Challenges

Between 2016 and 2023, Maple Ridge saw a total of 5,579 housing starts, with a majority consisting of condos (57%), followed by houses and row houses (31%) and purpose-built rentals (12%). The rising housing prices were also highlighted, with single detached houses increasing from $475,000 in 2011 to $1.27 million in 2022.

Rental Market Concerns

Rental prices have also seen a sharp increase, with the cost of a two-bedroom apartment rising from $850 in 2010 to $1,450 in 2022. The vacancy rate has consistently been below three per cent since 2014, and 43% of purpose-built rental buildings were constructed prior to 1981.

Future Projections and Recommendations

Consultants estimate that Maple Ridge will see over 2,100 new renters in the next 10 years, with a growing gap in purpose-built housing. The city is projected to have an additional 6,500 households between 2023 and 2028, with a further 4,100 households by 2033. The need for senior housing is also highlighted, with 8,000 new seniors expected by 2033.

Call for Action

Councillor Sunny Schiller emphasised the importance of affordability in housing and urged the city to take a more active and strategic role in addressing the crisis. She suggested partnering with other organisations and initiating projects before considering the establishment of a housing authority.

Feedback Opportunity

The Housing Needs Report Survey is currently available online for public feedback until Thursday, March 21. Residents are encouraged to participate and share their thoughts on the housing situation in Maple Ridge.