Grey, Dufferin, and Wellington Counties officially launched the Green Development Program on October 13, celebrating a new regional framework that recognizes new residential developments built to be more energy efficient, prepared for extreme weather, and affordable over the long-term.

The launch event was held at the Baybounds Presentation Centre in Meaford, a net-zero housing development currently under construction by Sinclair Homes. Attendees toured a net-zero show home and heard from local officials, industry representatives, and program partners about the goals of the new initiative.

The voluntary program, developed in partnership with the three counties and supported by Natural Resources Canada’s Codes Acceleration Fund, gives builders and developers a consistent regional framework to accelerate adoption of sustainable building features. Projects are assessed on 18 development features spanning natural environment, community and transportation, and built environment categories. Projects can earn Bronze, Silver, or Gold recognition based on their score. Through this program, the counties are excited to showcase what’s practical, possible, and already happening in local communities.

Four developments receive first recognition
As part of the launch event, four residential developments from across Grey and Dufferin counties were recognized for incorporating sustainability features that support more resilient, efficient, and livable communities.

Baybounds by Sinclair Homes in Meaford achieved Gold recognition, earning 26 points in the program. The net-zero community’s first phase includes 55 residential units and is designed to be full electric, with cold-climate heat pumps, heat pump water heaters, rooftop solar installations, and level 2 EV chargers for all homes. The development also includes native species in the landscaping, enhanced access to trails and open spaces. Each home will also produce as much energy as it consumes with solar installed on each home.

Elements of Meaford by Sarlie Canada received Silver recognition with 18 points. The development was the first project submitted to the Green Development Program following the soft launch in July. The 26-unit mixed-use development will be fully electric. Additional features include off-site prefabricated wood framing to reduce construction waste, native landscaping, increased long-term tree canopy, and improvements that support downtown walkability through wider sidewalks, park connections, public gathering spaces, and outdoor seating areas.

Baycrest Apartments by SkyDev in Owen Sound received Silver recognition with 16 points. The mixed-use development will include 712 residential units and incorporates a range of sustainability features including high-efficiency lighting, low-flow water fixtures, EV charging, and naturalized landscapes with community gardens and outdoor social spaces.

Five Creek Estates by Great Gulf in Orangeville received Bronze recognition with nine points. The 103-unit development features native species plantings, pedestrian-friendly streetscape design, cycling infrastructure, access to parks and public transit, and a mix of housing types that support a range of community needs.

Quotes
“The Green Development Program gives builders a way to stand out for their investment in more efficient, resilient homes,” said Andy Lennox, Mayor of Wellington North and Wellington County Councillor. “That recognition can help participating businesses demonstrate value to homebuyers and strengthen their competitive position. Working together across three counties also sends a clear message to investors and developers: our rural communities welcome innovation and investment in sustainable housing.”

“When we talk about housing affordability, the focus is often on what it costs to buy or rent a home. But long-term affordability also includes what it costs to live in a home and community over many years,” said Janet Horner, Councillor, Dufferin County. “The Green Development Program will help reduce long-term costs related to energy, transportation and sustainable infrastructure in the development stage. Together with our partners at Grey and Wellington Counties, Dufferin is excited to launch the Green Development Program and make decisions today that will serve our growing communities for decades.

“Grey County is proud to be part of the Green Development Program and to work alongside our neighbours in Dufferin and Wellington counties to support more sustainable communities. This program recognizes that good development can deliver benefits across the triple bottom line: people, prosperity, and planet,” said Andrea Matrosov, Warden, Grey Counter. “By encouraging energy-efficient, climate-resilient, and affordable housing, we’re helping create communities that are better for residents, more cost-effective over the long term, and supportive of our shared environmental goals. We look forward to celebrating the builders and developers who are leading the way and demonstrating what sustainable growth can look like in our region.”

About the Green Development Program
Any new residential development that has received or will receive occupancy after January 1, 2025, is eligible to participate. While the program is designed with developments of 10+ units in mind, projects of any scale may apply. Participation is free and does not affect or delay the standard development review and approval process.

Builders and developers interested in participating can complete the Program Interest Form available at their local county website.

Dufferin County: www.dufferincounty.ca/planning-development/green-development-program/

Grey County: www.grey.ca/green-development

Wellington County: www.wellington.ca/green-development

The Green Development Program is a voluntary recognition program developed by Grey, Dufferin, and Wellington Counties to encourage and support sustainability features in new residential developments. The program is funded in part by Natural Resources Canada’s Codes Acceleration Fund.

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For media inquiries, contact:

Grey County
Rob Hatten, Communications Manager
rob.hatten@grey.ca
519-373-1592

Dufferin County
Megan Ball, Communications Manager
mball@dufferincounty.ca
519-941-2816 ext.2513

Wellington County
Karen Chisholme, Climate Change and Sustainability Manager
karenc@wellington.ca
519-837-2600 ext.2063