Are coach homes and laneway houses coming to Port Coquitlam?

Laneway houses, coach homes and smaller lots are all being considered as Port Coquitlam council looks at new ways to increase density.

The community is growing quickly and council wants to accommodate newcomers without changing the feel of the city.

"There are people who are used to the way their neighbourhoods look and feel and we want to protect that as much as we can," said Coun.Glen Pollock.

"One of the ways we can do that instead of building an apartment building or something is to take big lots and split them in half."

Realtor Rod Hayes says high prices are keeping young families out of the market and providing them with a wider variety of housing options can't hurt.

"There's definitely a demand for carriage houses and laneway homes, and I think that's a great option because it keeps the integrity of the neighbourhood but still addresses some affordability issues," he said.

Hayes says many people who grew up in Port Coquitlam are moving to Pitt Meadows and Maple Ridge because it's cheaper.

"People are coming to Port Coquitlam from North Vancouver and Burnaby because of what they can buy here," he said.

"It's the affordability of it all without crossing bridges. So, young buyers, first timers, all of those people are going to be having to look at different options for buying."

City council is accepting public feedback on housing options throughout the summer.

Staff will compile the information into a report later this year.