Building a better future in Durham Region

Whitby, Ontario – To have a thriving community, access to affordable housing is a must. In recognition of National Housing Day on November 22, the Region of Durham is spotlighting the work being done to develop more housing that’s affordable, accessible and appropriate in our communities.

The Region is redeveloping some of the Durham Housing properties to increase the number of units and create modern, mixed-income communities. These properties, which are owned and operated by the Region of Durham, include:

• 409 Centre Street in Whitby: This redevelopment will replace an outdated two-storey, 16-unit seniors building with a new three-storey, 30-unit building.

• Christine Crescent and Normandy Street in central Oshawa: The Christine Crescent redevelopment will replace 12 outdated semi-detached units with two new mid-rise apartment buildings, totalling 160 units. The redevelopment on the west side of Normandy Street will replace 10 units with 18 new units.

• Malaga Road in south Oshawa: The redevelopment will replace 65 townhouse units with two new mid-rise apartment buildings, as well as stacked townhouses with 420 units.

• 600 Townline Road in east Oshawa: The new development will provide 50 units within a mid-rise apartment building.

Currently, the Region is seeking development partners for the first phase of the Ritson School Project. This phase will create up to 200 mixed-income rental units on a vacant part of the property, with at least 30 per cent of each building dedicated to affordable units. The project also includes plans to renovate the former elementary school for community use.

The Region of Durham continues to work collaboratively with community housing partners, who play a vital role in providing affordable housing across Durham Region. Through strong collaboration, we are helping to build inclusive, resilient communities.

Since launching the At Home Incentive Program (AHIP) three years ago, Regional Council has approved $30.5 million in AHIP funding to help create 350 new affordable rental units in Ajax, Clarington, Oshawa, Pickering, Scugog, Uxbridge and Whitby. The AHIP program was launched to support the development of affordable rental housing by providing capital funding and Regional planning services to public and private sector partners. Working together with public and private sector partners helps us make a bigger impact.

The Region of Durham remains committed to addressing the urgent need for affordable housing and will continue to explore bold, innovative solutions.

For information on affordable housing development in Durham region, visit durham.ca/AffordableHousingDevelopment.

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“Affordable housing is essential for thriving communities. When people have stable, affordable housing, they can focus on their families, work, education and being active members of their community. That’s why we’re working closely with private and public sector partners to build homes that meet real needs—homes that are inclusive, affordable and accessible.”

- Gary Muller, Director of Affordable Housing Development and Renewal, Region of Durham

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For media requests, please contact CorporateCommunications@durham.ca