New legislation signals progress on housing supply

Monday, Nov. 21, 2022

VANCOUVER, B.C.— Greater Vancouver Board of Trade President and CEO, Bridgitte Anderson, has issued a statement in response to the provincial plan to expand housing supply.

“The lack of available and affordable housing across British Columbia negatively affects the quality of life in our communities. During a time of high inflation, it compounds the challenges faced by local businesses, which find it increasingly difficult to attract and retain skilled workers due to the high cost of housing. A survey of our members in the spring found 83 per cent reported housing challenges were impacting their ability to recruit or retain employees.

Given the persistent housing shortages and nation-leading low vacancy rates, it is clear that meeting our housing targets is crucial for our future. This legislation is a welcome move to equip the province with new tools to ensure progress is made on housing supply.

We must continue working together to address remaining barriers to building more housing, including a lack of available workers, the rising cost of materials, and slow permitting and approvals processes. We need all partners working together to build more housing if we want to create a brighter economic future. I am pleased to see some action in the right direction today.”

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About the Greater Vancouver Board of Trade:

Since its inception in 1887, the Greater Vancouver Board of Trade has been recognized as Western Canada’s leading business association, engaging members to positively impact public policy at all levels of government and to succeed and prosper in the global economy. With a Membership whose employees comprise one-third of B.C.’s workforce, we are the largest business association between Victoria and Toronto. We leverage this collective strength, facilitating networking opportunities, and providing professional development through unique programs. In addition, we operate one of the largest events businesses in the country, providing a platform for national and international business and thought leaders to further enlighten B.C.’s business leaders.

Media contact:

Victor Young
Communications Manager
Greater Vancouver Board of Trade
604-640-5450 | media@boardoftrade.com