On Oct. 23, the provincial government released its five-year housing plan – Our Homes, Action for Housing. It represents a projected $1-billion investment and highlights targets to create the conditions for more than 40,000 new housing units across the province.
As part of the housing needs assessment, each of the province's municipalities received a report focused on the needs of their respective communities. The Town of Lunenburg's housing assessment provides a comprehensive look at the present and anticipated housing conditions and needs.
Here’s a summary of the Town of Lunenburg’s Municipal Housing Needs Report:
Growth in Households (2016-2021): There was a 4% overall increase in households, with a tenure split of 63% owners and 37% renters.
Notable Increase in Specific Household Types: Lone-parent households saw a rise of 58% between 2016 and 2021. Two and three-person households also grew, with 6% and 21% rates, respectively.
Senior Migration Trend: There's an observed trend of seniors leaving Lunenburg, with many relocating to Bridgewater.
Projections (2022-2027): Estimates indicate a potential 7% growth in total households from 2022 to 2027, reaching 1,180 households by 2027. Senior-led households, especially those maintained by individuals aged 85+, are expected to show the highest growth rate.
Housing Shortage: Lunenburg's current estimated housing unit shortage stands at 65 (as of the end of 2022). This shortage is projected to rise to 120 units by 2027. Despite this, only about 10 new units are anticipated to be added to the market annually over the next five years, suggesting a potential deficit of 70 units by 2027.
Broader Context: The housing demand surge in Lunenburg is partly attributed to the influx of in-migration to Nova Scotia, leading to elevated housing prices across both rental and ownership markets in the region.
Read the full report: pdf Town of Lunenburg Municipal Housing Needs Report (925 KB)
Read the complete provincial plan here: https://novascotia.ca/action-for-housing/