Mayor Ashe’s Official Statement on the Province’s Reversal of Greenbelt Plan

Pickering, ON, September 21, 2023 – Today, Premier Ford announced the reversal of the Provincial Government's plan to open up the Greenbelt lands for housing development, including the lands in our hamlet of Cherrywood.

First and foremost, I want to emphasize that the City of Pickering will abide by the wishes of the Provincial Government, as we have consistently demonstrated throughout. The Government’s decisions reflect the broader interests of our province and its people, and we respect the direction it has chosen to take in this matter.

It's essential to acknowledge that we are still facing a nationwide housing crisis, which is particularly acute here in the Greater Toronto Area.  And as such, Pickering remains committed to addressing these challenges by providing a broad and diverse array of housing choices while ensuring development occurs in a responsible, systematic, and sustainable manner.

Pickering is recognized as one of Ontario’s growth leaders.  Namely, we will see intensification and revitalization of our downtown core, including a master planned community adjacent to our GO Station.  Kingston Road will become a vibrant corridor of residential and commercial opportunities underpinned by strong transit infrastructure.  The burgeoning community of Seaton will eventually see up to 70,000 residents and 35,000 jobs.  And most recently, the Region of Durham’s updated Official Plan confirmed that there will be future residential, commercial, and employment growth in northeast Pickering.

Moving forward, our goal is to create a dynamic, connected and innovative city, attracting the best and brightest residents and businesses to Pickering, while also ensuring a diverse range of housing options that will enable youth, families, seniors, and long-term residents to remain in our community.

Kevin Ashe
Mayor, City of Pickering

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As the gateway to the east GTA, Pickering (population 105,000) is strategically located where Toronto, York and Durham Regions meet. An award-winning municipality, Pickering is slated for significant economic and residential growth; offering an unparalleled quality of life for those who live, work, and play here. Its dynamic City Centre has been designated by the Province of Ontario as both an Urban Growth Centre and Mobility Hub, and continues to evolve as a preferred destination for creative learning, memorable events, and unique experiences at the heart of a vibrant, connected, and engaged community.

Media Contact:  

Mark Guinto
Division Head, Public Affairs & Corporate Communications l Office of the CAO
905.420.4660 ext. 2013  
mguinto@pickering.ca