Ontario Construction News staff writer
The Ontario government has introduced legislation to consolidate a new investment-ready mega site in St. Thomas, following the Job Site Challenge.
Canada’s first mega-site initiative was modeled after successful programs in the U.S. designed to attract large-scale advanced manufacturing investments that have the potential to create hundreds of new jobs across the province.
“Our government is leaving no stone unturned in our efforts to attract new investments that will create good-paying jobs and strengthen the economy,” said Vic Fedeli, minister of economic development, job creation and trade. “Creating more shovel-ready mega sites will help Ontario remain competitive as the province competes for major global investments.”
In November 2019, Ontario launched the program to create an inventory of investment-ready mega sites. As part of this initiative, municipalities, economic development agencies and industrial property owners put forward large tracts of land of between 500 and 1,500 acres that could support large-scale manufacturing operations.
A site in St. Thomas and Central Elgin that is approximately 1,500 acres has been identified as “one of the most investment-ready mega sites in Ontario”, however, with the land divided between two municipalities with different permitting requirements, potential investors could face red tape and delays from duplication.
If passed, new legislation will adjust the municipal boundaries so the site resides fully in St. Thomas, speeding up construction timelines and ensuring that the site is truly shovel-ready for potential investment.
“We are taking a collaborative approach across government and with our municipal partners to cut red tape and ensure the benefits of economic growth are enjoyed across the province,” said Steve Clark, housing minister.
Ontario continues to work with municipalities across the province to identify other large-scale industrial sites.
