MULTIPLE-UNIT DWELLINGS TRIPLE IN MARCH

Numbers released today by CMHC show multiple family dwellings in Saskatchewan more than tripled in March 2011.

According to the report, multiple-unit construction starts jumped 219 per cent in March 2011, with 26 starts in March 2010 and 83 in March 2011. Single family dwellings were up 148 to 190, a 28 per cent increase.

In total, Saskatchewan's urban housing starts increased 57 per cent over the previous year, second only to Prince Edward Island.

"March's increase in housing starts is a testament to our growing population numbers," Enterprise Saskatchewan Minister Jeremy Harrison said. "This translates into increased economic growth and additional options for those looking to Saskatchewan as an ideal place to live."

In the first three months of 2011, urban housing starts increased 51 per cent, compared to the same period in 2010. Saskatchewan ranked second among the provinces in terms of percentage change.

Regina and Saskatoon both saw strong housing starts in the first three months of the year, with 38.7 per cent and 77.5 per cent increases, respectively.

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For more information, contact:

Shanna Schulhauser
Enterprise Saskatchewan
Regina
Phone: 306-798-0503
Email: shanna.schulhauser@enterprisesask.ca