Land donation paves way for affordable housing development in Antigonish

Antigonish Doctor and Partner Leading Affordable Housing Development

Dr. Amy Hendricks and her partner, Paul Davies, had a vision when they purchased a large property on the outskirts of Antigonish two years ago. As they walked through the land, surrounded by spruce and apple trees, Davies proposed the idea of an affordable housing development. Now, their dream is becoming a reality as planning is underway for a project that could bring 150 housing units to the community.

The couple donated a 16-hectare section of land to the Antigonish Affordable Housing Society, kickstarting the development process. With seed funding secured, the first phase will include 56 units, addressing the pressing need for affordable housing in the town and county.

Dr. Hendricks, an internal medicine specialist at St. Martha’s Regional Hospital, and her family relocated to Antigonish from Yellowknife in 2016. Their initial intention was to develop a clinic on the land, but they soon realized the potential for a larger community impact. “We want to invest in a community that is diverse and inclusive,” said Hendricks.

Colleen Cameron, chair of the Antigonish Affordable Housing Society, highlighted the significant need for housing in the area. A provincial housing needs assessment projected a demand for 1,500 new units by 2032 in Antigonish County, which has a population of over 20,000. The town, home to St. Francis Xavier University, faces similar challenges in providing affordable housing options.

The $22 million project will rely on a mix of funding sources, including grants, mortgages, and loans from Housing Nova Scotia and the Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation. The housing society aims to raise over $1 million through community support and fundraising efforts.

Cameron envisions a diverse community of residents in the development, spanning various ages, incomes, and backgrounds. The majority of units will meet Housing Nova Scotia’s affordability criteria, making them accessible to individuals with moderate incomes.

Dr. Hendricks hopes that the housing units will benefit the entire town, fostering a sense of community and belonging. “We are all excited to be part of this project and create something beautiful for Antigonish,” she said.

As the development progresses, it promises to address a critical need for affordable housing in the region while fostering a more inclusive and vibrant community.