Achi news desk-
Cape Breton Regional City (CBRM) may soon have new housing options for people living with disabilities.
On Tuesday night, the CBRM council unanimously approved a proposal put forward by Mayor Amanda McDougall-Merrill to change a land use bylaw that would allow secondary housing units – often referred to as ‘accessory dwelling units’ – to be built. on a single family residence. a lot.
One reason for the proposed change is the Nova Scotia government’s plans in the coming years to phase out institutional-style living spaces for people with disabilities.
CBRM adviser Cyril MacDonald spoke to CTV Atlantic about the topic on Wednesday.
“I think this is an opportunity for people who may have some vacant land”, said MacDonald. “(People who) have always wanted to install a garage, or always wanted to build an income property. They can do that now, and they can house a person with a disability – who would, of course, have support staff and carers and what have you.”
MacDonald added that the municipality is in discussions with the Nova Scotia Department of Community Services about how best to roll this out to serve the various needs of people.
The Council has now requested a report from the borough’s planning department about the overall feasibility of the idea, but it is not yet clear when that might be completed.
