Stephen Welchner (MBC News photo)
Construction is moving ahead on the Linden Housing Cooperative in Perth, with the 39-unit affordable housing development on Wilson Street West expected to welcome its first residents in January.
Project chair Stephen Welchner told our Lynda D’Aoust the development is progressing well despite some weather-related delays during the winter months. He said the project is now nearly back on schedule and remains on track for occupancy at the start of the new year.
Welchner told Lynda the project team has benefited from favourable construction weather this spring and summer. He also praised the work of 2B Developments, 2B Construction and site supervisor Tom LePage for helping keep the project moving forward.
The development will include 39 homes, with 36 units in the new building and three additional units created in the existing house on the property.
The project will also include 10 rent-geared-to-income units available through Lanark County’s housing list, helping provide more affordable housing options for local residents.
Welchner said the co-op model offers something different from traditional rental housing. Residents become members of the cooperative and have a voice in how the community is managed.
The building will feature common gathering spaces, community gardens and opportunities for members to work together and support one another.
Welchner said housing charges will be lower than comparable new-build rental units while also offering larger living spaces. Most units will be one-bedroom apartments, along with five two-bedroom units, one three-bedroom unit and one studio apartment.
Applications for the first round of occupancy remain open until July 31. Welchner said the cooperative is designed for people seeking an affordable, community-focused place to live while helping build a stronger and more connected Perth.
