Sooke’s new health centre and housing project is moving ahead.
The District of Sooke announced Aug. 11 that it will be working with key partners to improve access to health services and housing at 6651 Wadams Way.
Catalyst Community Developments Society was the successful proponent to develop the proposed health centre and housing project.
As proposed, the six-storey mixed-use building would include 80 rental apartments, with 30 per cent of them rented at 20 per cent below market rate. It would also house a health centre with additional medical services space.
“This project exemplifies the collaborative approach we need to build healthy, inclusive communities,” said Mayor Maja Tait.
“By working with a leading non-profit developer and the other project partners, we’re transforming publicly owned land into a lasting community asset.”
Catalyst is a non-profit B.C.-based developer and operator of rental housing and community spaces, which the district says has a track record of delivering high-quality health care spaces and housing located in one building.
“Catalyst is excited for the opportunity to work with the District of Sooke to bring this project to life,” said Robin Petri, vice-president of development at Catalyst.
“With health care services co-located in the same building as affordable rental housing, this project is designed for community well-being.”
The district will contribute municipally owned land through a long-term nominal lease to make the project financially viable. The district and Catalyst will work with the Ministry of Health and Island Health to develop the project. The health authorities will seek funding and financing through the province’s B.C. Builds program to make the vision a reality.
“This innovative project will integrate rental housing affordable for middle-income households with integrated health services to support the needs of the Sooke community,” the district said in a news release.
Construction is targeted to begin within 18 months, with completion expected about 20 months after breaking ground.
The project will be guided by the district’s official community plan and the Sooke Lot A Design Report from 2019, which envisions the town centre as a vibrant civic hub integrating housing, public amenities and health services in a walkable and sustainable setting.
The proposed health centre has been discussed in Sooke for over a decade. In November 2023, a steering committee was assembled consisting of members of Sooke council and the Sooke Region Community Health Network.
In April 2024, Lot A at 6671 Wadams Way was among the eight properties selected across B.C. for expedited construction of rental homes targeting middle-income residents, as part of the B.C. government's BC Builds initiative.
