Federal government releases land in Banff for affordable housing

The federal government has opened up 12 lots of land in Banff for development of affordable housing initiatives in the mountain community. (Google)

The Government of Canada has announced that a portion of land has been opened in the Town of Banff to be used for affordable housing.

Catherine McKenna, Minister of Environment, Climate Change, and responsible for Parks Canada made the announcement on Thursday.

The land, which includes six lots on Cave Avenue and six lots on Deer Street, will be leased to the Banff Housing Corporation so it can be developed into affordable, multi-unit rental housing.

“The Government of Canada is committed to affordable housing. We recognise the long-term sustainability and vitality of the community in Banff National Park is dependent on access to affordable housing. We hope that the release of these federal lands to the Town of Banff will improve the housing situation for those who live and work in Banff National Park," said McKenna in a release.

As part of the deal, the new buildings will incorporate many green housing initiatives.

Banff mayor Karen Sorensen says the community needs more affordable housing for residents. The deficiency of appropriate housing impacts our social and economic wellbeing and hinders our ability to provide the necessary services to the park visitor. We are grateful and very pleased that Parks Canada is an active partner in addressing this housing challenge.”

The Town of Banff council still needs to approve the decision.