The proposed 282-unit development at Rocky Creek can be a step in the right direction for Ladysmith. Not only will it provide needed housing, but will bring new vitality to the town, specifically the waterfront.
A housing report by the Cowichan Valley Regional District indicated Ladysmith will need 510 new units by 2025 — this project, if approved, can provide more than half of that. Combine that with other projects, including Tidalwood apartments, which is set to begin showings soon, and the town is getting close the housing need goal. According to 2021 census data though, it is growing at a rate of 65 units/per — to meet the goal it needs to add 85 units/per year. There is a clear need for this project.
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The development proposes a mix of single-family and multifamily dwellings, including apartment buildings. This mix should help attract different demographics to Ladysmith and provide options for residents. Single people or professional couples would be able to fill some of the many job openings and have a place to call home. Young families will have more options for having their own space and retirees can move into a waterfront home above the marina.
The development will provide people with an opportunity to live on the water, a privilege reserved for few in Ladysmith currently. It sticks with the town’s saying of “heritage by the sea.” Having more residents living on and enjoying the waterfront could lead to a more clear demand for further improvements to the seaside, such as implementation of the town’s waterfront plan. Apartments above the Ladysmith Marina would be attractive to pleasure boats who keep their vessel moored in town, but do not currently live here.
Ladysmith has been dealing with a housing crisis, but it can’t be said that there are not people working diligently to solve it. The owners of the Rocky Creek lot could have, with existing zoning, built 75 single-family homes to sell in the over-inflated market. Instead, they opted to go through the trouble of a rezoning and community plan amendment process to create a development that will benefit the town as a whole.
It is not clear yet how many of the 282 units will be rentals, or if they are, what they will cost — but with the proposed mix of housing, it is sure to have a positive impact on the community.
Tidalwood apartments will soon announce pricing and begin showing their new pet-friendly rental units. A huge problem with renting, especially on Vancouver Island, is finding a place that allows pets. This is another example of a developer listening to the needs of the community when planning a project.
Though some residents do not like change and may scoff at these types of large developments, a town cannot be stagnant, and with these projects, Ladysmith is on track for growth. Ladysmith should welcome these developments and the new residents they attract with open arms. They will bring new opportunities, economic growth and vibrancy to the community.
@_hay_tyler
editor@ladysmithchronicle.com
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