Digby, Nova Scotia – The picturesque town of Digby, known for its scallops and stunning waterfront, is facing a critical housing shortage that is impacting residents, businesses, and the community’s future. The West Nova Chamber of Commerce is raising the alarm, highlighting the urgent need for increased housing options and a shift in local attitudes towards development.

We have a severe lack of housing in the West Nova region, particularly in Digby. This is affecting everyone; families, seniors, essential workers, and newcomers. We’re losing valuable members of our community because they simply cannot find a place to live.

The housing shortage is not the problem, it is a symptom of a bigger problem. The problem we are dealing with has reared its head regarding a housing project for Thomas Road in Digby. An appeal has been filed to stop the project. It has created a conflict within our community.

The Chamber believes that a long-standing resistance to change within the community is a major contributing factor to the housing crisis. There’s a fear of development and a reluctance to embrace new ideas. This has created a hostile environment for builders and developers, discouraging them from investing in Digby.”

This sentiment is echoed by a developer who is currently building rental units elsewhere in Southwest Nova Scotia. He cites Digby’s “general opposition to any local investments from outside parties” as a major deterrent. “It’s clear that housing is needed,” he says, “but I am not likely to develop in Digby.”

The shortage of housing has led to a competitive rental market, with many residents struggling to find affordable options. Stories of inadequate living conditions, unresponsive landlords, and exorbitant rents are becoming increasingly common.

One resident describes living in a mold-infested apartment with a landlord who refuses to make repairs. “We’re living in mold, walking around with coats because it’s so cold,” she says. “We want to move, but the rental prices are ridiculous.”

Another resident points to the concentration of rental properties in the hands of a few landlords as a contributing factor to the problem. “They own pretty much everything in Digby and Digby County,” he says. “They jack up rent without notice, and some of their properties are not fit to live in.”

The lack of affordable housing is also forcing people to leave Digby. One lifelong resident recently moved to Yarmouth with his wife because they could not find suitable housing in Digby. A single parent made a similar decision, relocating to Annapolis Royal for the same reason.

The West Nova Chamber of Commerce is calling for a change in attitude and a more proactive approach to addressing the housing shortage. We need to welcome responsible development and create an environment that encourages builders to invest in our community. This will not only provide much-needed housing but also attract newcomers, such as doctors, lawyers, and tradespeople, who are essential for our region’s growth and prosperity.

The housing crisis in West Nova is a complex issue with no easy solutions. However, the Chamber believes that by raising awareness, encouraging dialogue, and promoting a more welcoming environment for development, the community can begin to address this critical challenge and build a more prosperous future for all its residents.