It would be a mistake to repeal B.C. housing legislation, says UBC expert

An expert in housing policy at the University of B.C. has cautioned against repealing key provisions of the outgoing NDP government's housing legislation in British Columbia. Despite a large number of vacant condominiums in the province, Alexandra Flynn emphasizes that the market is not functioning properly and that the legislation is essential.

Flynn, who specializes in housing policy, notes that the New Democrat government introduced transformative changes, including legalizing higher densities on single-lot properties in municipalities with populations exceeding 5,000. These housing targets have faced significant criticism from local governments, and the incoming premier, Lorne Doerkson, has indicated a plan to repeal the legislation, citing local communities' better understanding of their needs.

However, Flynn stands by the legislation, stating that it requires improvements in how housing targets are communicated. She believes the law can be a "powerful tool" and that it would be a mistake to discard it entirely. Flynn advises against focusing on potential repeals at this stage, instead urging the province to set a new course for housing policy development.