Sooke District Partners with Catalyst to Develop Health Centre and Affordable Housing

Strategic Insights -

The District of Sooke, in partnership with Catalyst Community Developments Society, is moving forward with a key project to improve access to health services and affordable housing in the Sooke community. The proposed six-storey, mixed-use building at 6651 Wadams Way will feature 80 rental apartment homes, including 30% that will be rented at 20% below market rates, as well as a health centre and additional medical services space.

Key Takeaways:

  • The project will be developed by Catalyst, a BC-based non-profit developer with a proven track record of delivering high-quality health care spaces and housing co-located together in one building.
  • The proposed building will include 80 rental apartment homes, of which 30% will be rented at 20% below market rates, providing affordable housing options for middle-income households.
  • The health centre will be integrated with the housing and will provide medical services to support the needs of the Sooke community.
  • The District of Sooke is contributing municipally owned land to the project through a long-term nominal lease, helping to make the project financially viable.
  • The project partners include the District of Sooke, Catalyst, the Ministry of Health, Island Health, and the Province's BC Builds program.
  • The project is guided by the District's Official Community Plan and the Sooke Lot A Design Report (2019), which envisions the Town Centre as a vibrant civic hub integrating housing, public amenities, and health services in a walkable and sustainable setting.
  • Maja Tait, Mayor of Sooke, stated that the project exemplifies the collaborative approach needed to build healthy, inclusive communities.
  • Robin Petri, Vice-President Development at Catalyst, expressed excitement for the opportunity to work with the District of Sooke to bring the project to life.

Statistics:

  • The proposed building will have approximately 6 storeys and will include 80 rental apartment homes.
  • 30% of the rental apartment homes will be rented at 20% below market rates, providing affordable housing options for middle-income households.
  • Construction is targeted to begin within 18 months and completion is expected approximately 20 months after breaking ground.

Sources:

  • District of Sooke
  • Catalyst Community Developments Society
  • Ministry of Health
  • Island Health
  • Province of BC (BC Builds program)
  • Sooke Official Community Plan
  • Sooke Lot A Design Report (2019)