The Central Lakes Association of REALTORS® (CLAR) has released a groundbreaking report titled “Planning for Prosperity: Housing Policy Best Practices and Recommendations for Durham Region,” focusing on actionable solutions to address housing shortages and affordability concerns across Oshawa, Whitby, Pickering, Ajax, Scugog and Clarington.
With Durham Region facing a critical housing supply gap, the report provides targeted strategies for local governments to address the unique needs of each area. The report compares municipal policy commitments against a scorecard of housing supply best practices and underscores the urgent need for reforms that will support both population growth and economic sustainability in the region.
“Durham Region has a housing affordability crisis,” said Vicki Sweeney, President of CLAR. “We need all hands on deck to get more attainable housing built that families can afford. Our new report provides a roadmap for how each municipality can adopt tailored approaches to meet its distinct housing challenges.”
Key Solutions Highlighted in the Report:
- Clarington: Review zoning bylaws to increase flexibility, expand Community Improvement Plan (CIP) programs for affordable housing, and implement four units as-of-right zoning.
- Oshawa: Expedite surplus land identification for affordable housing, invest in e-permitting systems, expand CIP programs, and adopt four units as-of-right zoning.
- Whitby: Target reductions in development charges, expand e-permitting services, and promote affordable housing through CIP.
- Pickering: Revise zoning bylaws for greater flexibility and enhance CIP and affordable housing strategies.
- Ajax: Develop incentive programs for Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs), extend development charge exemptions, and reduce parking standards near transit hubs.
- Scugog: Introduce an incentive program for ADUs, audit surplus properties for housing development, and infill development policies.
“Durham is behind on our housing supply targets and families are struggling with affordability,” said Sweeney. “While most municipalities have made progress, our report calls on them to continue that important work. We must be bold if we’re going to make a difference on housing.”
Durham Region is poised for significant growth over the next decade, with the population expected to nearly double, reaching approximately 1.3 million people by 2051. This rapid expansion will transform the region into one of the fastest-growing areas in Canada.
“Durham Region is booming both in terms of population growth and our economy,” said Sweeney. “As leaders, we have a responsibility to ensure Durham is building enough homes to meet the increased demand.”
The report employs a comparative analysis methodology based on 10 housing policy best practices derived from the federal government’s Housing Accelerator Fund application process, which are considered effective strategies for boosting housing supply and improving affordability.
“CLAR has partnered with Real North Strategies to complete the report – the first of its kind in Ontario to use a best practice scorecard,” said Sweeney. “We are thrilled to be releasing it and sharing it with our elected leaders in Durham.”
See the entire report here.
