The Calgary census metropolitan area has recorded one of the biggest year-over-year increases in housing starts across the country, according to the Conference Board of Canada.

In a report of 27 CMAs released Monday, the board said the Calgary region’s seasonally-adjusted annual rate of starts in April was 20,426, up from 6,667 in April 2011.

Also, the board said short and long-term expectations for housing starts are positive in the Calgary region.

Short-term expectations are based on residential permits.

Long-term expectations are based on demographic requirements.

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