Surrey’s Housing Action Plan: A Beacon of Progress
The City of Surrey has made significant strides in addressing its housing crisis, achieving an impressive milestone by approving 10,508 new housing units in just the first two years of its comprehensive Housing Action Plan. This achievement, reported to the council on February 23, demonstrates the city’s commitment to improving the availability of housing options for its residents.
Meeting Targets with Federal Support
More than 80 percent of Surrey’s three-year target under the federal Housing Accelerator Fund has now been met, a remarkable feat considering the pressing demand for housing in the region. “Every new home we approve brings Surrey residents closer to the housing they need,” expressed Mayor Brenda Locke. She extended her gratitude to the federal government and the Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation, highlighting their collaboration in delivering diverse housing options.
Streamlining Processes for Speedier Approvals
In addition to the number of units approved, Surrey has made noteworthy improvements in its administrative processes. In 2025 alone, the city added 4,280 housing units while simultaneously cutting permitting timelines by an impressive 75%. This was achieved through the implementation of over 20 process improvements, making it easier for developers to contribute to the housing supply.
Federal Government Acknowledgment
Randeep Sarai, Secretary of State for International Development and MP for Surrey Centre, commended the city’s progress, stating, “Our government is committed to giving local governments the support they need to drive housing supply and bring down housing costs.” His encouragement underscores the importance of the Housing Accelerator Fund, which is positively impacting municipalities across Canada.
Funding and Initiatives
Launched in 2023 with a robust budget of $100.7 million in federal funding, Surrey’s Housing Action Plan is geared towards expanding housing supply, streamlining approval processes, and fostering affordable housing initiatives. The progress report reveals that seven out of nine specified initiatives are on schedule or have been completed. Notably, in 2025, the city invested $35.1 million in housing-related initiatives, all funded through grants.
Strategic Land Purchases
One of the city’s strategic moves included the acquisition of land worth $18 million for future affordable housing projects. This proactive approach is crucial in preemptively addressing the needs of a growing population.
Future Plans and Improvements
As Surrey approaches the final year of the Housing Accelerator Fund, the focus will shift to completing significant projects. These include an update to the Official Community Plan and the introduction of Amenity Cost Charges along with bonus density frameworks. Additionally, plans are in place to enhance online permitting systems by including digital plan reviews and expanding the range of permit types available on the permitting portal. These changes aim to simplify and expedite the review processes for quicker turnaround times.
Conclusion
With a clear vision and robust strategies, Surrey is making meaningful progress in meeting the housing needs of its residents. For those interested in staying updated on the Housing Action Plan and its initiatives, further information is available at surrey.ca/housingaccelerator. As the city advances, its commitment to inclusive growth and development will undoubtedly continue to shape a brighter future for the community.
