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Rendering of a proposed 22-bed complex care facility to be built on Boxwood Dr. in Nanaimo. The project recently received a building permit. (Image Credit: BC Housing)
22 beds

Permit awarded for Nanaimo complex care facility

Jun 23, 2026 | 6:56 AM

NANAIMO — Much-anticipated permanent housing for those with overlapping complex mental health and substance issues has cleared a critical hurdle.

Construction can begin on a three-storey, 22-bed complex care facility at 1850 Boxwood Rd., between Dufferin Cres. and East Wellington Rd.

A BC Housing initiative in partnership with Island Health, City staff approved the building permit at the rezoned lot on the two-thirds of an acre property on Thursday, June 18.

An elated Nanaimo Mayor Leonard Krog said this more specialized facility for acute cases is exactly what Nanaimo needs.

“Seriously, it’s an answer to my prayers,” Krog told NanaimoNewsNOW, who has long advocated for complex care facilities, as well as involuntary care in certain situations.

“These 22 beds are going to get some of the hardest to house, the most challenging cases, off the streets. It will enhance public safety and security in the community. This is absolutely the right thing to do, and I am delighted to see it proceeding,” Krog said.

According to BC Housing, the apartment-style building includes 22 studio units with support services and enhanced complex care health services.

BC Housing expects construction to start in July, with an estimated completion date of early 2028.

Complex Care Housing (CCH) is subsidized with on-site supports for single adults with complex health needs, including seniors and those with disabilities.

While Krog said additional complex care facilities are required in Nanaimo, he calls the pending Boxwood Rd. facility “a good first step,” and he looks forward to hearing how its residents respond to their environment.

Krog supports smaller complex care facilities, which he said should be in place throughout B.C.

He said many communities, such as Nanaimo, have felt the brunt of people with complex mental health and addiction issues wreaking havoc.

“I can’t emphasize enough how much time is spent, how much money is expended, how much stress is created in communities, how much crime and disorder results from our failure to deal with the mental health, addictions, trauma, brain injury crisis.”

A statement from BC Housing outlined the facility will be for people “currently experiencing homelessness, staying in a shelter, or living in existing permanent or transitional supportive housing sites in Nanaimo who require additional supports to maintain their housing.”

BC Housing, in collaboration with local partners, including the future operator and Island Health, will work together to select the tenants.

Residents typically pay the income assistance shelter rate for supportive or complex care housing, presently set at $500 monthly, BC Housing stated.

A community engagement report from BC Housing stated Island Health will offer on-site health services in addition to supports provided by a non-profit housing operator.

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