A 525-unit housing plan on Nun’s Island faces delays after residents trigger a referendum, highlighting Montreal’s ongoing debate over new developments.
Residents Stall Major Nun’s Island Housing Development
A Promising Site Meets Fierce Resistance
A proposal to transform a sprawling parking lot and commercial building at 8 Place du Commerce into 525 new homes has hit an unexpected roadblock. While developers saw an opportunity to address Montreal’s housing shortage, a wave of local opposition has brought the project to a standstill.
“Not In My Backyard”: Community Voices Concerns
For many Nun’s Island residents, the idea of adding hundreds of new units is a step too far. Sylvie Martel, a vocal opponent, described the proposed densification as “monstrous,” echoing widespread fears about overdevelopment. Longtime resident Marylena Catanese cited existing strains on traffic, schools, and clinics, while Claribel Gamboa argued that the neighborhood is already saturated with buildings.
The Power of 26 Signatures
Despite support from the Verdun borough and a zoning change request by MACH Group, the project was halted when just 26 residents signed a register—enough to trigger a referendum and force a public consultation. This small but determined group has effectively paused the development, demonstrating the significant influence of local activism.
Divided Opinions on Nun’s Island’s Future
Not everyone is celebrating the delay. Some, like Bertrand Guermeur, believe blocking new housing is a mistake: “We need to open everything to everybody.” Others warn that constant resistance to development could paralyze progress. “If it’s always ‘not in my backyard,’ nothing’s going to move forward,” said Julien Regragui.
New Provincial Rules on the Horizon
The impasse comes as Quebec’s government seeks to streamline housing approvals with Bill 31, which could allow municipalities to bypass referendums in the name of tackling the housing crisis. However, Verdun officials confirmed that the Nun’s Island project was not eligible for fast-tracking under the current rules. The borough is now working on a transparent framework to implement these new powers, expected to be adopted in June.
What’s Next for Montreal’s Housing Landscape?
As Montreal grapples with a growing need for housing, the outcome of this Nun’s Island dispute could set a precedent for future developments across the city. Will local voices continue to shape the skyline, or will new policies tip the balance toward rapid expansion?
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