More homes are expected to be built in Antigonish.

The Town of Antigonish and Municipality of the County of Antigonish say they have received their first installment of federal funding.

It will allow the community to increase both housing availability and affordability through the Housing Accelerator Fund (HAF).

This $3.2 million fund supports municipalities to remove construction barriers and increase the supply of dwellings that are diverse, affordable, and climate resilient.

The County is receiving $1.9 million for eight housing initiatives, and the Town is getting $1.3 million for five housing initiatives.

In total, Antigonish plans to create 93 homes in three years and more than 270 residences over the next 10 years.

In order to reach that goal, updates are being proposed for policies, zoning and bylaws.

This includes changing construction of missing middle and higher-density housing such as apartment buildings, townhouses and duplexes, and regulations for Accessory Dwelling Units.

Future payments will depend on the progress or completion of the actions that are outlined in their action plans.

You can find more information and complete the public survey here.