The Record · Ottawa Morning Wire

Your basement could become a second unit. Here's how.

Your city is getting more places to live

Bon Matin, Ottawa. You know, sometimes the real story isn't the grand pronouncements from the Hill, it's the quiet hum of activity that actually shapes our city. That's what we’re seeing in the latest building permits and development applications.

According to the recent data, there's a significant push for more residential space. For instance, in Ward 3, a permit was issued for a "Residential Second Unit in Basement" at 1645 Bough Beeches Blvd, a $66,034 project that includes three new windows and interior alterations. Another similar permit in Ward 10, at 3809 Periwinkle Cres, is adding a second unit with a below-grade stairwell for $49,203. This isn’t just about making basements pretty; it’s about increasing housing density in existing neighbourhoods.

And looking ahead, there's an active development application for a "Residential apartment building" at 1970 and 1980 Fowler Drive in Ward 8. This application, along with a "Townhouse development" proposed for 376, 390 Derry Rd W and 0 Oaktree Circle in Ward 11, indicates a broader strategy to tackle the housing crunch. It’s a good sign for anyone trying to find a place to live here, même si ça prend du temps.

The real story is never on the Hill — it's always just off it.

Simone Okafor-Bouchard, MiTL Sports Desk, Ottawa.

Need more deets? The team on "The Morning Wire" digs into this every weekday. Catch it at mornings.live.

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