By Stephanie Froese

West Hill Development underway

Jun 14, 2011 | 5:14 PM

A project that has generated a lot of debate in one Prince Albert community is officially under construction.

A new rental housing project developed by Northern Spruce Housing Corporation has a sod turning ceremony at the new affordable family housing at the site.

Despite a downpour of rain their spirits were not dampened, said Kelly Skiffington, general manager of the Northern Spruce Housing Corporation.

“We’re so happy that we’re finally here we’re so happy that there is ground in a state of disarray beside us and just saying we’re happy is a complete understatement,” Skiffington said.

The project, almost two years in the making, consists of five semi-detached units that will house 10 families.

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Construction is expected to be done in 2012.

The location on 22nd Street West, just south of Angus Merasty School became a hot topic for West Hill residents and the West Hill Historical Society.

Concerns for the development’s effect on the neighborhood spurred some unsuccessful legal action.
Skiffington said the project’s design will ensure those concerns will not be a reality.

“We envisioned a housing complex that captured the essence of the neighborhood,” Skiffington said.

“We're not only going to blend in but were going to enhance this neighborhood. It is a good neighborhood and this is a neighborhood that we want people to have safe and secure housing.”

The project has received about $2 million in funding through the Saskatchewan Housing Corporation.

sfroese@panow.com