In line with its mission to provide affordable housing, Habitat for Humanity is proposing a six-storey, 48-unit apartment building in the city’s north end.
The proposal, which has not been formally submitted to the city for consideration, calls for a variety of zoning bylaw and official plan amendments allowing the effort to go ahead at 303, 309 and 317 Speedvale Ave. E. – located on the south side of the road between Stevenson Street North and Metcalfe Street.
“The requested increase in density is necessary to create new affordable housing using Habitat’s model for home ownership and achieve the established vision,” states a planning justification report posted on the city’s website.
“The intent … is to create a compact and efficient residential development that fulfills a portion of the overwhelming demand for housing that Habitat for Humanity’s families are (in) need of at or below market value.”
Habitat for Humanity already owns the properties, which currently include two 1.5-storey homes and a 2.5-storey professional office building which are to be demolished.
The proposed build, which comes with one parking space for each unit, is to feature 11 one-bedroom units, 17 two-bedroom units and 20 three-bedroom units.
“Based on the current population needs in Guelph, there is a shortage of smaller units for smaller households,” adds the report. “For the last decade, Guelph has been in core housing need; unable to meet adequate, affordable, or suitable housing for a percentage of the population.”
It goes on to point out the city’s population is mandated to reach 208,000 by 2051, up from about 145,000 now, which will only increase the demand.
The proposed build is located on an arterial road, along transit routes and with available municipal servicing, the report notes. It’s also close to schools, parks, commercial spaces and other amenities.
In order for the building to go ahead as proposed, the site’s official plan designation would need to be changed to high density from low density, meaning the maximum building height is increased from three storeys to 10 storeys.
Several zoning amendments will also be sought, including a variety of reduced setback requirements and fewer required parking spaces, to 48 from 65.
As explained on Habitat for Humanity Guelph Wellington’s website, the affordable home ownership program features “favourable down payment options” and a two-mortgage model.
The first mortgage is secured through a traditional loan, at market interest rates. The second, which covers what remains of the purchase price, is provided through Habitat for Humanity and doesn’t require payments until the end of a 20-year term.
