Nova Scotia
Build in Westville
Coal mining heritage meets modern housing opportunity with 20% lower costs than Halifax and streamlined permitting
R2
Primary Zone
From $160K
Per Unit Cost
From $2,000/mo
Standard Rent
Zoning in Westville
Multiple zones allow multi-family development as-of-right, with varying density allowances.
R1
Up to 1 Units
Low-density residential zone for single-family homes. Recent amendments rezoned many R1 areas to R2 to expedite housing approvals and address the hous...
10m (2.5 storeys)
35% coverage
R2
Up to 2 Units
Two-unit residential zone allowing duplexes. Significantly expanded under 2025 bylaw amendments to permit more as-of-right development and tiny homes ...
10m (2.5 storeys)
40% coverage
R3
Up to 4 Units
Medium-density residential zone allowing triplexes, fourplexes, and multi-unit dwellings. Primary target zone for Helio development with expanded as-o...
11m (3 storeys)
45% coverage
Why Build in Westville?
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20% Lower Construction Costs
Westville's 0.80x cost multiplier compared to HRM delivers significant savings on labor and materials. Combined with affordable land prices, investors can build quality rental housing at substantially lower total cost.
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Part of Regional Employment Hub
Located just 4km from New Glasgow, Westville residents access employment at Michelin Granton, Aberdeen Regional Hospital, Sobeys headquarters, and NSCC Pictou Campus. Diverse employer base creates stable rental demand.
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Streamlined As-of-Right Permitting
The 2025 Common Land Use By-law amendments rezoned most R1 areas to R2 and expanded as-of-right approvals for multi-unit development. Duplexes now permitted without special approvals on most residential lots.
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Above-Average Local Income
Westville's median household income of $60,800 exceeds New Glasgow's $58,000 and provides a solid tenant base of employed residents seeking quality rental housing in a quieter residential setting.
Products Available in Westville
Based on local zoning, these products can be built as-of-right or with standard approvals.
Have a Lot in Westville?
Helio is actively building across Nova Scotia. Get a quote for your specific lot.