The development of a new apartment complex at 1520 McKenzie Ave., close to Shelbourne Street in Saanich, raises real questions about the region’s commitment to affordable housing.

With 593 units, the complex is built to luxury standards.

A studio apartment of just 353 square feet starts at $1,800 a month, while a slightly larger one costs $2,075.

A one-bedroom apartment with a ­meagre 513 square feet begins at $2,430, rising to $2,810 for 565 square feet.

A two-bedroom apartment ranges from $3,375 to $3,700 per month, while a three-bedroom apartment costs $4,175.

These prices are far higher than ­average rental rates in the region.

The average rate for a one-bedroom apartment in Saanich is around $2,000, while a two-bedroom apartment goes for around $2,700.

Moreover, the intersection of ­McKenzie and Shelbourne is ­ideally placed for an affordable housing complex, both in its proximity to the ­University of........

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