FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Gander Exceeds Housing Targets; Reports 136 New Units Over Two Years

Gander, NL – October 5, 2026 – The Town of Gander has reported 136 new housing units over the first two years of its Housing Accelerator Fund initiatives, progressing toward its four-year program target of 200 units. 

The two-year total includes 41 units in Year 1 and 95 units in Year 2. The 95 units reported between March 2025 and February 2026 exceeded the Year 2 target of 67 by 28 units, or approximately 42 per cent. 

The new housing includes single-family homes, dwellings with apartments, duplexes, apartment units, and secondary suites, providing more options for current and future residents. 

Gander’s population increased by approximately 23 per cent between 2001 and 2021. As a regional service centre serving more than 80,000 people across Central Newfoundland, the Town is working to ensure housing supply keeps pace with demand. 

“Gander has experienced steady growth over the past two decades, and that growth continues today,” said Mayor Percy Farwell. “The progress we’re seeing through new housing development is helping ensure our community remains a place where people can build careers, raise families, and put down roots. As we continue to grow, creating more housing opportunities will remain a key priority.” 

Through its Housing Accelerator Fund Action Plan, the Town is updating development regulations, streamlining approval processes, and supporting a wider range of housing options. Other initiatives include housing partnerships, a missing middle housing pilot project, assessments of municipal land and infill opportunities, and land acquisition. 

The Town has also recorded 46 new builds during the current construction season, reflecting continued residential growth in Gander. These builds fall after the February 2026 reporting period and are additional to the 136 housing units reported through the first two years of the program. 

Housing Progress at a Glance

Four-Year Program Targets 

The overall program target is 200 housing units. Within that total, the Town’s targets include: 

• 68 units in multi-unit apartment buildings 

• 70 missing middle housing units, including accessory apartments, garden suites, duplexes, row dwellings, and multiplexes 

The program also has a 35 per cent affordability target. 

Results for the First Two Years 

Year 2 Housing Breakdown 

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