A long-running and often contentious proposal to transform part of the Nanticoke Industrial Park into a large mixed-use community is once again in the spotlight after the Province of Ontario opened a public consultation on a requested Minister’s Zoning Order (MZO).
The Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing has posted a proposal on the Environmental Registry of Ontario seeking feedback on a request submitted by Empire Communities and supported through previous resolutions passed by Haldimand County Council.
The proposal would allow for a mixed-use development covering approximately 1,700 hectares in the Nanticoke area. Plans include industrial, commercial, institutional and residential uses. According to information posted by the province, the majority of the lands are currently designated for industrial and agricultural uses in Haldimand County’s Official Plan.
The consultation period runs until July 3.
The issue has generated significant debate in recent years, with supporters arguing the project could bring investment, housing and economic development, while opponents have raised concerns about infrastructure, environmental impacts, industrial land preservation and the pace of growth.
Haldimand-Norfolk MPP Bobbi Ann Brady has been one of the most vocal opponents of the development. In a social media post following the release of the provincial consultation, Brady encouraged residents from both Haldimand and Norfolk to participate in the process.
Brady argues the proposal could eventually bring approximately 15,000 homes and as many as 40,000 residents to the area, fundamentally changing the character of the region. She has previously expressed concerns about the impact such growth could have on transportation infrastructure, healthcare services, schools, policing and other public services.
The MPP has also raised concerns about preserving industrial opportunities in Nanticoke, including potential future energy and manufacturing investments.
The Ministry says it is specifically looking for feedback related to land-use compatibility, environmental considerations, health and safety issues, servicing and infrastructure requirements, economic impacts on the community, municipal financial implications and effects on existing or approved developments.
While consultation on MZO requests is not required under provincial legislation, the ministry says it is seeking public input to help inform whether the request should proceed.
Residents can review the proposal and submit comments through the Environmental Registry of Ontario until July 3.
