Mayor's Message: Urban Planning for Industry and Employment in Southern Halton Hills

Drivers in the area of Steeles Avenue between Winston Churchill and the Fifth Line are seeing land cleared with planning and development signs go up. The area, known as the Halton Hills “Premier Gateway,” is being planned for the creation of large scale and diverse employment opportunities and increased tax assessment to maintain and enhance the economic vitality of our Town. As the ‘gateway’ to Halton Hills, a high standard of design is expected for new office, warehousing, manufacturing and commercial development. From a business perspective, its locational advantages include access to Highways 401 and 407, the proposed Highway 413 and the airport. The Town’s Economic Development team markets Halton Hills as a prime investment destination with particular focus on the Premier Gateway. Our strategic location in the GTA, infrastructure, access to major international markets and an open for business approach are key factors driving corporate interest in Halton Hills. In the Steeles Avenue area, there are several active projects being serviced by the Economic Development department. These projects have the potential for over $1.2 billion in investment dollars, over 3,000 direct jobs and nearly 6 million square feet of commercial and industrial building. Change will be significant, but Town Council is supporting a planning framework that will help the area thrive as a dynamic, accessible, and economically competitive employment area that reflects sustainable development practices. Detailed policies will balance those new uses and existing residential areas, the creeks and natural systems, heritage structures and some agricultural operations. The full range of design best practices, from landscaping and bird friendly design, stormwater management, lighting and traffic management will all be encouraged. Public consultation is underway for Phase 2B of the Premier Gateway planning. Residents are welcome to weigh in. Documents about the area and recordings of public meetings are available to view. Visit the project website at letstalkhaltonhills.ca.