An appeal has been filed against the construction of a new affordable housing complex in Amherst, N.S., causing a delay in the groundbreaking of the apartment buildings. The YMCA of Cumberland is spearheading the project, aiming to build 36 units across two buildings at 1 Albion St. It is anticipated that the organization’s housing outreach staff will operate from one of the buildings. Plans include dedicating one-third of the units to supportive housing, pending funding approval from the province.
Trina Clarke, the CEO of the YMCA of Cumberland, expressed that while the delay was not unexpected, they have faith in the process and their development vision. The Amherst town council had previously voted 4-2 in favor of the development agreement in July, with Coun. Dwayne Ripley and Coun. Nic Furlong dissenting.
The appeal was lodged on August 4 by Amherst resident Ray Hickey, who cited concerns about the potential negative impacts of supportive housing and associated facilities on the area. Hickey highlighted issues such as disruptions to local businesses and services, as well as safety concerns following a fatal shooting in April near an emergency shelter and existing supportive housing units. Ashley Legere, executive director of the Cumberland Homelessness and Housing Support Association, emphasized community engagement efforts post-incident.
Hickey also raised objections regarding the lack of amenity space in the project, alleging non-compliance with municipal planning guidelines. While the development plans include just over 300 square meters of shared outdoor space with no balconies, this falls short of the minimum amenity space required by the land-use bylaw. Hickey argued that residents would lack sufficient personal amenity space.
Despite the challenges, Clarke remains optimistic about the project’s design and impact. The appeal is expected to delay construction by six to 12 months, potentially affecting the ongoing housing crisis. Clarke highlighted the urgent need for such developments amidst a growing crisis in the community.
