From heritage buildings to homes: How more housing could be coming to downtown Winnipeg

CentreVenture plans to convert vacant heritage buildings in downtown Winnipeg into housing units.

A Winnipeg corporation is working to bring new housing units to the downtown by converting heritage buildings.

CentreVenture announced a new plan that will start with 297 new homes in Winnipeg’s core.

“The presence of people is critical to safety. It’s critical to supporting economic growth and development,” said Mayor Scott Gillingham.

“You need people, residents, to support local businesses. So it’s really vital that we have more people living in the downtown. And right now, a credit to all the investors, we are seeing that momentum really take shape here in downtown.”

The new homes will be built in four heritage buildings – 140 units in St. Charles Hotel, 114 units in Maw’s Garage, 29 units at 290 Garry St., and 14 units in Alloway Lofts.

Of the 297 units, 106 will be affordable housing.

“These projects demonstrate how strategic investment can unlock underused buildings and deliver meaningful housing results,” said Rochelle Squires, the CEO of CentreVenture.

“By partnering with all levels of government and the private sector, we’re helping create a downtown that is more livable, inclusive, and economically strong.”

CentreVenture is expected to contribute $4.65 million to kickstart the project, and Squires noted developers will also be able to apply for tax incentives through the provincial government, which will help go toward capital construction costs.

This project is the first step of a new strategic plan known as CentrePlan 2050. The goal is to have 750 new housing units in downtown Winnipeg every year.

Gillingham said this new announcement combined with previously announced projects could see up to 5,000 new residents living downtown.