The Clarington Community Improvement Plan will make the entire municipality eligible for targeted incentives supporting housing, business investment and property redevelopment.
The new framework takes effect January 1, 2027. It replaces an approach centred on separate improvement areas in downtown Bowmanville, Courtice, Newcastle and Orono, giving the municipality flexibility to direct programs to different locations and types of development across Clarington.
Council adopted the plan at a special meeting on August 10. The municipality announced the final framework in September after completing a review intended to align its incentives with current legislation, local priorities and changing community needs.
Community Improvement Plans allow Ontario municipalities to offer grants, loans and other financial tools that encourage development, redevelopment and building upgrades. Clarington’s updated plan contains 15 incentive programs grouped around six focus areas.
Housing, downtowns and employment lands included
For historic downtowns, the plan can support façade and sign improvements, accessibility work, renovations and new commercial space. Housing programs are intended to encourage additional dwelling units and affordable purpose-built rental projects.
The employment-land incentives focus on industrial expansion and major investments that create jobs. Separate tools are planned for brownfield assessment, cleanup and redevelopment, helping return underused or potentially contaminated properties to productive use.
Agricultural businesses may be eligible for support tied to on-farm diversification, including agri-tourism, value-added ventures, building improvements and signs. Conference and banquet facilities are another focus, reflecting the municipality’s interest in tourism and event-related economic activity.
Transition rules apply through December
Applications submitted and deemed complete by December 31, 2026 will continue under Clarington’s existing Community Improvement Plans. New applications after the updated plan takes effect will be assessed under the new framework and the requirements of the applicable incentive program.
The municipality-wide designation does not automatically give every project funding. Applicants will still need to meet program criteria, follow the required approval process and confirm that money is available. Specific incentives may also target priority areas or particular kinds of development.
Property owners, businesses and developers considering work in 2027 can review the municipality’s Community Improvement Plan update for program details and future application information.
Sources: Municipality of Clarington; Durham Post.
