'New standard': Newmarket reaches tentative deal with Shining Hill developer to protect environmental lands

Yorkregion.com
Jan. 27, 2022

A tentative deal that would protect at least 80 acres of environmental lands and provide other amenities on the proposed Shining Hill lands will be discussed by councillors at a Jan. 31 meeting.

The development stretches over a northern section of Aurora and a southern part of Newmarket, on either side of St. John’s Sideroad west of Yonge Street.

About a third is in Aurora, and two-thirds is in Newmarket.

Newmarket Mayor John Taylor has called Shining Hill the largest area in the town left open to development, with the potential of containing more than 1,000 homes.

On Jan. 24, Newmarket announced a draft agreement with Shining Hill Estates Collection Inc.

The proposed deal would see at least 80 acres of environmentally significant lands protected as part of a “sustainable community” on the lands at 16250, 16356 and 16450 Yonge, the town said.

If approved, the agreement will require the developer to build a community with green housing options, affordable housing, low-impact development, and many amenities.

“If approved, I believe this agreement will represent a new standard in sustainable community building and environmental stewardship,” Mayor John Taylor said.

Highlights of the agreement require the developer to provide:

• A minimum of 80 acres of all environmentally significant lands conveyed to the town and at least six kilometres of public trails.
• Minimum 5,000 trees.
• A $1 million contribution to the town to establish a green environmental fund for initiatives to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
• $12,500 per residential unit for the green environmental fund, the Mulock House heritage fund, the town’s public art fund, and multi-use paths and active transportation in Newmarket, with an initial focus on Mulock Drive.
• A new clubhouse with 12 courts.
• 2.5 acres of land for the development of affordable housing.
• At least an acre for a community garden.
• At least an acre for and construction an off-leash dog park or parks.

 

Residents can tune into the Jan. 31, 1 p.m. meeting at newmarket.ca/meetings.

To make a virtual or written deputation, email clerks@newmarket.ca.