A supportive housing project planned for South Surrey was rejected by city council Monday night.
The development of two low-rise residential buildings on 152 Street and 19 Avenue had been the subject of controversy.
Last month, community members started a petition and rallied on the site to oppose the inclusion of 20 complex-care units and 40 supportive housing units, along with the planned 202 non-market rental units.
“While we support compassionate care for vulnerable individuals, this location is the wrong place for such a facility,” the petition claims.
It cites concerns over noise, open drug use, and litter in close proximity to “sensitive” child and family spaces, and the potential impact on local businesses, property values, and community character.
In council Monday, Surrey Mayor Brenda Locke said she shares those concerns.
“The people that require supportive housing and complex care are some of the most vulnerable residents in our province, and they require intensive, wrap-around services, 24/7 supports, and careful consideration of where those services and supports are located. Simply placing 40 supportive units and 20 complex-care units in this residential area without genuine engagement with the people who live there is not responsible planning,” said Locke.
Related:
She says the province, not the city, was responsible for the amount of supportive and complex-care units included in the proposal.
“Our objective is to retain and advance the much-needed 202 non-market rental homes, while insisting on a more appropriate approach for supportive and complex care housing elsewhere,” said Locke.
The application was referred back to city staff with the direction to work with BC Housing to amend it.