100 New Public Housing Units Break Ground in Shannon Park as Part of Major Affordable Housing Push

A major step forward in Nova Scotia’s affordable housing strategy is underway, with construction beginning on 100 new public housing apartments in Shannon Park. The development is expected to provide safe, affordable homes for more than 300 people and marks the first phase of a broader housing plan announced jointly by provincial and federal governments last December.

Access to public housing is based on a rent-geared-to-income (RGI) model, where rent is calculated according to a household’s total income and composition. Under this model, most eligible households pay 30% of their total gross (before-tax) income toward rent, while households that include at least one adult and one dependent may qualify for a reduced rate of 25%.

Housing Minister John White emphasized the significance of the project, noting its role in shaping a vibrant, connected community.

“These homes will be part of an exciting new community development, close to schools, childcare, other homes and recreation,” said White.

Originally slated for construction on Old Beaver Bank Road in Lower Sackville, the project was relocated after further analysis revealed significant challenges at the initial site. Officials determined that development there would incur millions in unexpected costs and result in fewer housing units.

Despite the shift, housing development continues in Lower Sackville. A separate 22-unit apartment building is currently under construction on Old Beaver Bank Road and is expected to welcome tenants by spring 2027.

The Shannon Park project is part of a larger vision to deliver 930 affordable homes in the area. To support this ambitious goal, the Province has partnered with Build Canada Homes, securing $120 million in federal funding for housing initiatives across the Halifax Regional Municipality. Nova Scotia is among the first provinces to reach such an agreement, positioning it as a leader in accelerating affordable housing development.

The relocation also reflects responsiveness to local concerns. The original Sackville site is partially used by the Sackville NS Lions Club for parking and storage—space that would have been lost if construction had proceeded there.

Located approximately 15 kilometres from the original site, Shannon Park is now set to become a key hub in the region’s growing affordable housing network, offering not just homes, but a foundation for a thriving community.