Sooke is making major progress on its long-awaited health centre and housing project. The District of Sooke announced on August 11 that it will partner with key organizations to improve access to health services and rental housing at 6651 Wadams Way.
Catalyst Community Developments Society has been selected to develop the proposed six-storey mixed-use building. The project will include 80 rental apartments, with 30% priced at 20% below the market rate. In addition, the building will feature a health centre offering expanded medical services.
Mayor Maja Tait said the project highlights collaboration to build strong, inclusive communities. She noted that the partnership with a leading non-profit developer and other stakeholders will turn publicly owned land into a lasting community asset.
Catalyst, a non-profit developer based in British Columbia, has a proven record of delivering quality housing and health care spaces in a single building. Robin Petri, vice-president of development at Catalyst, said the project is designed to promote community well-being by combining health services with affordable rental housing.
To support the project, the district will provide municipally owned land through a long-term nominal lease. District officials and Catalyst will coordinate with the Ministry of Health and Island Health to plan the development. Funding will be sought through the B.C. Builds program to help make the project a reality.
The district emphasized that the initiative will combine affordable rental housing for middle-income households with integrated health services tailored to Sooke residents’ needs. Construction is expected to begin within 18 months and finish roughly 20 months after breaking ground.
The project aligns with the district’s official community plan and the 2019 Sooke Lot A Design Report. Both documents envision the town centre as a vibrant hub where housing, public spaces, and health services coexist in a walkable and sustainable environment.
Plans for a health centre in Sooke have been discussed for over ten years. In November 2023, a steering committee was formed, including members of Sooke council and the Sooke Region Community Health Network.
In April 2024, Lot A at 6671 Wadams Way was among eight properties in B.C. selected for fast-tracked rental housing construction targeting middle-income residents. The selection was part of the provincial government’s BC Builds initiative.
The proposed project represents a key step in expanding both housing and health care services in Sooke. By combining affordable apartments and medical facilities in a single building, the plan aims to improve residents’ quality of life while supporting sustainable community growth.
Construction will create new housing and health care spaces, enhancing the town centre’s role as a civic and community hub. Officials are optimistic that the partnership with Catalyst and support from provincial programs will ensure the project meets its goals for accessibility, affordability, and health care availability.
Sooke’s health centre and housing project marks a significant milestone in the town’s development. With planning, partnerships, and provincial support aligned, the community can look forward to improved services and more affordable housing in a central, accessible location.
