ISBN: 0920684793 9780920684795

Category: Political Science / Public Policy / City Planning & Urban Development

Page count: 57

This study was undertaken to examine both the short- and long-term implications of reduced new house demand on the housing industry, and from this information, to consider appropriate public policy intervention. A literature review identifies macro-economic factors affecting the housing industry in the 1970s & 1980s, considers changes due to those factors, and elucidates the effects those factors are having on the structure of the housing industry. Government policy at the federal, provincial (Manitoba), & municipal (Winnipeg) levels is reviewed as it relates to long- & short-term change in housing activity, with particular attention to the effects of housing policy on production. Demographic trends & their implications for the Canadian, Manitoban, & Winnipeg housing markets are evaluated. To further discussion & extend it to consider future change, a more detailed examination is made of the Winnipeg housing industry, using three primary data sources: building permit data, capital cost allowance data, and surveys & interviews of local industry participants. The results demonstrate the need for a variety of solutions to address housing demand, industry reorganization & alternative functions, development of knowledge & skills for industry members, and industry capability to develop realistic demand forecasts.