Surrey residents voice concerns over a proposed supportive housing project, urging city leaders to pause plans and hear the community’s call for change.

Surrey Residents Raise Concerns Over Housing Project

Although Surrey often sees active civic debate, Friday’s scene at city hall felt unusually energized. Many residents gathered to share deep concerns about a proposed supportive and complex care housing project planned for the Semiahmoo Town Centre area. And as voices rose, the message stayed clear: the community wants answers, and they want them now.

Why the Community Is Speaking Up

People who live and work near the project site say their worries keep growing. The plan calls for 260 homes at 15238 19 Ave. and 1880 152 St., including affordable rentals, supportive units, and complex care studios. Residents agree that housing is needed. Yet they fear the location may not work well because schools, parks, and busy shops sit just steps away.

Because these factors matter, spokesperson Lionel Wilson of the Semiahmoo South Surrey Coalition stepped forward. He said the group now includes more than 8,000 residents and businesses. Wilson explained that many feel uneasy after seeing other projects they believe fell short. They want strong proof that this new plan will succeed. They want a model that shows clear, positive results. And they want it before the project moves ahead.

What Others Say About Similar Projects

During the press event, a representative from Keep Richmond Safe shared concerns about a similar development in Richmond. They described rising issues such as crime and nearby encampments. This added even more weight to the crowd’s growing list of worries. Because of this, many residents say they want Surrey City Council to slow down and take a closer look.

City Leaders Respond to the Growing Pressure

Wilson and others have already met with Mayor Brenda Locke and city councillors. They left those meetings feeling hopeful. They believe the mayor wants to listen to the community. They also expect more discussion before council considers rezoning at Monday’s meeting. With that vote approaching, residents plan to gather again at city hall to make their concerns visible and impossible to miss.

Province Says the Homes Are Needed

Christine Boyle, B.C.’s Minister of Housing and Municipal Affairs, said the region needs more homes of every type—affordable rentals, supportive units, and complex care spaces. She explained that these homes help people leave unsafe situations, find health supports, and rebuild stability. She added that illegal substances will not be provided at the site, and trained staff will be present around the clock with added security in place.

Calls for Public Input Grow Louder

Residents also want a public hearing. However, the city says Bill 44 prevents hearings when proposed zoning aligns with the Official Community Plan. Even so, Mayor Locke stressed that the city does not want a facility that lacks community support. She said such a situation would not help anyone.

A Community Determined to Be Heard

As the gathering wrapped up, chants of “Our voice matters!” filled the plaza. Because the decision ahead feels huge for many families, emotions ran high. And as Monday’s council meeting nears, residents say they will keep showing up, keep speaking out, and keep pushing for a plan they believe will work for everyone.

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