With 75 units the project features commercial space and a community centre.
 
A significant milestone has been reached in the development of a $34 million affordable housing project for seniors in Sooke.
 
Sooke district council has given the green light to a plan for a six story complex that aims to provide housing options for the elderly.
 
With 75 units, including 17 fully accessible ones, the building will also feature commercial space and a community centre called The Gathering Place.
 
The proposal, put forth by the Sooke Region Communities Health Network (SRCHN), outlines the construction of the structure at the intersection of Wadams Way and Anna Marie Road.
 
Various amenities are planned for the ground level, including community lease spaces, outdoor areas for residents to enjoy, a public pathway, and potentially an interpretive Fire garden.
 
Additionally, semi-underground parking and surface parking stalls are included in the proposal.
 
The main entrance to the building will be situated on Wadams Way.
 
The residential lobby and space for an intergenerational community centre will be connected to a future B.C. Transit stop and community area.
 
The upper floors, spanning from the second to the fifth, will house the residential units and provide a common outdoor amenity space.
 
The main obstacle that remains is securing the necessary funding.
 
Mary Dunn, vice-president of SRCHN, said that while the funding has not yet been approved, obtaining the development permit brings them a step closer to being shovel-ready, strengthening their application to B.C. Housing this fall.
 
SRCHN is actively seeking additional federal and provincial funding and has initiated a fundraising campaign with a target of $2 million.
 
The District of Sooke has contributed $250,000 towards this project, emphasizing the importance of affordable housing options for seniors.
 
Kevin Laird.