Ontario Construction News staff writer
An agreement with Shining Hill Estates Collection Inc. will secure a minimum of 80 acres of environmentally sensitive lands and build a sustainable community on lands municipally located on Yonge Street in Newmarket.
The development is described as “a community with green and affordable housing options, including low impact development, new trails, dog parks, a clubhouse with courts and 5,000 trees. This agreement along with the Official Plan Amendment for the subject lands was approved at the Feb. 7 Newmarket council meeting.
“Council is very excited that we were able to negotiate an agreement that represents a new standard in sustainable community building in Newmarket,” said Mayor John Taylor.
“I believe (it) represents good planning that meets all the requirements of a complete community but also reimagines what a sustainable new community should be. Most importantly, this agreement provides access to 80 acres of environmentally protected lands and seeks to protect them in perpetuity.”
Agreement highlights include:
- Conveyance of a minimum of 80 acres of environmentally significant lands including at least six kilometres of public trails
- $1 million contribution for seed funding to establish a green environmental fund for initiatives to reduce greenhouse gas emissions
- $12,500 per residential unit built will be contributed to the green environmental fund, the Mulock House Heritage fund, the town’s public art fund and for multi-use paths and active transportation in Newmarket, with an initial focus on Mulock Drive
- A new clubhouse with 12 courts
- 2.5 acres of land for the development of affordable housing
- At least one acre of land and construction of a community garden
- At least one acre of land and the construction of off-leash dog park(s)
- 5,000+ trees to expand Newmarket’s tree canopy
The Town of Newmarket will seek other community benefits at later stages of the regular planning process for the Shining Hill Official Plan Amendment. The Shining Hill Official Plan Amendment was also approved at the Feb. 7 Council Meeting.
“What is laid out is just the beginning of what’s to come and I am committed to continue to work with Ward 6 residents to keep everyone engaged throughout the process,” said Councillor Kelly Broome.
“Newmarket has a reputation of being a progressive leader in environmental initiatives and sustainability, a news release said. “The town’s commitment to being a green community remains steadfast with and environmental stewardship continuing to be one of the key focus areas of council.”
Newmarket has approved an Official Plan Amendment submitted by Shining Hill Estates Collection Inc. The purpose of the OPA is to provide a long-term vision for lands located in the southwest area of the municipally known as 16250, 16356 and 16450 Yonge St.. The amendment will allow portions of the lands to be developed for urban uses such as a mix of residential, institutional, commercial, office, parks and open spaces uses.