Clarington yesterday announced that the Soper Springs Secondary Plan has been approved, with a promise of at least some affordable housing.
This election year, several ambitious development projects have been announced, most without updated timelines or projected costs. The municipality’s latest announcement of “a compact and connected new community in north Bowmanville” did not include any timelines or projected costs either.
“Soper Springs is planned as a residential community that supports a range of housing types, including affordable housing options, to help meet the needs of Clarington’s growing and diverse population. Housing areas are planned alongside community services and parks to support convenient access to everyday amenities,” said a municipal statement.
This area is generally bound by Liberty Street North to the west, Concession Road 3 to the south, and Lambs Road to the east. The northern boundary runs aligning with the Bowmanville urban boundary.
The Soper Springs Secondary Plan sets the policies that will guide future housing, multi-use paths and trails, park development, as well as environmental protection and supporting infrastructure as the area develops over time, it said.
“We’re taking charge of responsible growth and keeping Clarington moving forward. This plan lays out how this area can develop, where buildings and businesses will go, how tall they can be, and what roads or parks are needed. It won’t change anything overnight, but this plan will make sure that as new development comes in, it fits our community and our vision for Clarington’s future,” said Mayor Adrian Foster.
A well-connected community
The statement said Soper Springs’ neighbourhoods are designed to be well-connected through a planned network of streets and multi-use paths and trails, promoting walking, cycling and other sustainable travel modes.
Parks and green spaces will be strategically located throughout the plan area and supported by a connected trail network that will link residential areas, natural features and community destinations – helping to support active lifestyles and convenient connections throughout the community, it added.
Protecting natural heritage
The municipality said a defining feature of the Soper Springs Secondary Plan is its strong emphasis on protecting and integrating the area’s Natural Heritage System, including lands associated with the Soper Creek tributaries.
The plan establishes policies to protect, enhance and maintain these areas so they remain a prominent feature of the community – helping to preserve ecological functions while offering opportunities for residents to connect with nature.