British Columbia's research universities welcome the provincial government's decision to support the construction of more on-campus housing, a move which will benefit students and communities.
On February 20, the B.C. Government announced a housing strategy, which will allow post-secondary institutions to develop affordable, on-campus student residences in regions throughout the province.
"Providing more student housing on our campuses will benefit students and alleviate housing pressures in communities," said Prof. Jamie Cassels, President of the University of Victoria and Chair of the Research Universities' Council of British Columbia. "This is a practical and lasting solution, which is an important part of addressing housing challenges across BC."
The high demand for on-campus housing has left many students turning to private accommodation, driving up rental costs and reducing supply for low income earners, single-income families and seniors. The need for on-campus housing has never been greater, with demand far exceeding supply.
"The shortage of student accommodation is acute in many communities throughout British Columbia," said Robin Ciceri, President of the Research Universities' Council of British Columbia. "This action by the provincial government will help to alleviate this pressure and provide more access for students."
Such demand places a drain on housing availability regions throughout British Columbia, increasing rental costs and reducing vacancy rates. Vacancy rates in Victoria and Vancouver are among the lowest in Canada.
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