A long-anticipated waterfront transformation in Courtice is officially moving forward after Clarington Council approved the Courtice Waterfront Secondary Plan, paving the way for new parks, housing and public lakefront access in Durham Region.
The comprehensive plan, years in development, outlines a vision for a vibrant and sustainable waterfront community along Lake Ontario. It includes approximately 2,500 housing units designed to accommodate about 4,800 new residents, along with a massive municipal park, commercial spaces and improved shoreline connections.
Mayor Adrian Foster called the approval a milestone moment for Courtice.
“We’re truly fortunate to be a waterfront community, stretching along the beautiful shores of Lake Ontario,” Foster said. “I’m thrilled we now have a clear and exciting path forward to an amazing, publicly accessible Courtice waterfront.”
A key feature of the Courtice waterfront plan is a new 16-hectare municipal park — larger than the former Bowmanville Zoo lands. Much of Courtice’s lakefront has historically been privately owned, and the new park will significantly increase public access to the shoreline. The park will include lakeside trails, natural areas surrounding Tooley Creek and open spaces for passive recreation.
The plan balances growth with environmental protection. Sensitive areas along the Lake Ontario shoreline and Tooley Creek valleylands will be preserved, with Clarington working closely with agencies such as the Central Lake Ontario Conservation Authority, Ontario Parks and the Region of Durham to maintain ecological integrity.
Residential development will range from single-detached homes and townhouses to mid-rise apartments and mixed-use buildings. Areas closest to Darlington Provincial Park will feature low-density housing to ensure a gradual transition. In the mixed-use core, buildings may reach up to 15 storeys, subject to further studies and approvals.
The Courtice waterfront plan also introduces a pedestrian-oriented focal point at a prominent intersection. This area is envisioned as a community hub featuring restaurants, cafés and small shops, creating a lively destination for residents and visitors. Officials estimate the commercial components could generate approximately 550 jobs in retail, hospitality and community services.
Active transportation is another central element. The neighbourhood will connect directly to the Great Lakes Waterfront Trail, the Lake Ontario shoreline and Tooley Creek through multi-use paths, pedestrian bridges and cycling facilities. The design supports walkability and bike-friendly infrastructure while linking to the broader municipal trail network and the future Courtice GO Station.
Municipal officials describe the Courtice Waterfront Secondary Plan as a blueprint for a complete community — one that integrates housing, employment, recreation and environmental stewardship.
While construction timelines will unfold over several years, residents can review details and FAQs at clarington.net/CourticeWaterfront.
With council approval secured, Courtice is set to undergo one of the most significant waterfront transformations in Durham Region’s history.
