Ontario Government Eases Red Tape to Boost Student Housing
London, ON – The Ontario government has announced a significant legislative change aimed at addressing the student housing crisis and freeing up affordable homes for individuals and families in London. The Cutting Red Tape to Build More Homes Act, 2024, unveiled today at Western University by Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing Paul Calandra, promises to expedite the construction of new student residences across the province.
During his visit, Minister Calandra revealed plans for two new student residences at Western University, which will accommodate more than 1,000 students. This initiative is part of a broader strategy to ensure that students have access to safe and affordable housing, which is essential for their academic success.
I joined my colleagues on a visit to @UWindsor’s newest six-storey residence that will offer 238 units for students once completed.
Our government has made it easier for universities across the province to build future student residences so that every student has an affordable… pic.twitter.com/7cfshKIyDT
— Paul Calandra (@PaulCalandra) July 31, 2024
“Access to safe and affordable housing is crucial to the success of all postsecondary students,” said Minister Calandra. “For too long in Ontario, red tape was making it difficult for our partners to build homes. That’s why our government has been taking action to remove those barriers and make it easier to build housing of all types, including student accommodation. Today’s announcement is a testament to our government’s focus to unleash opportunity across our province.”
One of the key features of the new legislation is the exemption of publicly assisted universities from the Planning Act, allowing these institutions to bypass many municipal planning approvals. This change is expected to save years in the approval process, eliminate planning application fees, and facilitate the construction of higher-density student residences.
In addition to the legislative changes, all publicly assisted colleges and universities are now required to publish student housing policies. This move aims to improve information accessibility and provide more resources for students seeking housing options, further addressing the housing needs of the student population.
The Cutting Red Tape to Build More Homes Act, 2024, is part of a larger effort by the Ontario government to reduce bureaucratic obstacles and accelerate housing development across the province. By focusing on streamlining approvals and enhancing infrastructure growth, the government aims to tackle one of the biggest barriers to housing development – cumbersome red tape.
With this new legislation, the Ontario government is poised to significantly impact the student housing landscape, ensuring that more students have access to affordable housing options while also benefiting individuals and families in need of affordable homes. The announcement at Western University marks a promising step towards achieving these goals and addressing the broader housing crisis in Ontario.
