Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Agribusiness

Norfolk County is seeking provincial support and clarity on urban boundary expansion, rural development policies, and fair funding definitions to balance growth with agricultural priorities and meet local business needs.

Where we're at

Developers are proposing to expand 1,354 acres around Delhi, Simcoe, Courtland, and Waterford to accommodate new housing and commercial growth. While this presents opportunities, it also raises important questions about land use planning, particularly around rural severances and additional dwelling units. Norfolk County is seeking clearer direction from the Province on its long-term vision and the legislation that governs these decisions.

Norfolk’s population of 69,000 qualifies it for “large urban” funding streams under programs like the Housing Accelerator Fund (HAF). However, most of its urban centres have populations well below 10,000, creating a mismatch between funding definitions and local realities. Norfolk is advocating for updated population thresholds that better reflect the needs of mixed rural-urban communities.

In May 2024, Council approved a plan to expand Norfolk’s urban boundaries to support residential and commercial development. While this plan is essential for growth, it has prompted concerns from special interest groups about the impact on farmland. Fast-tracking the expansion is now critical to support businesses like Scotts Canada Ltd. in Delhi, which was included in the original plan and needs approval to meet rising demand.

Norfolk asks that the Province:

• Helps residents become aware of the legislation, parameters for growth in relation to agricultural lands, and the appropriate balance required to meet Provincial priorities. A more robust education and awareness campaign would be welcome.