Council Approves Next Steps in Innovative 140 Unit Affordable Housing Project

The Town of Saugeen Shores is proud to announce a significant milestone in its commitment to affordable and attainable housing. At the October 14, 2025 Council meeting, Council approved a consortium led by Tim Welch Consulting Inc. as the proponent to design and construct a minimum 140 unit affordable housing development and municipal park on the Town-owned Bluewater Lands, located at 374 Bruce Street, Port Elgin. Map showing the proposed development concept

This approval marks the first step of this important project, paving the way for the municipality and partners to improve affordability in Saugeen Shores. The development will feature a mix of low-rise apartments and townhouses, with all units qualifying for affordability parameters for at least 50 years. Additionally, a portion of the site will be dedicated for a new municipal park featuring potential amenities such as a butterfly meadow, playground, outdoor ice pad, and community garden.

“This is a transformative initiative for Saugeen Shores,” said Mayor Charbonneau. “By moving forward with this project, we are demonstrating our commitment to innovative solutions for affordable and attainable housing, and to building a vibrant, inclusive community.”

This project is the direct result of the Town’s Affordable Housing on Town-Owned Lands Policy, adopted in February 2024. The Policy enables Saugeen Shores to actively participate in the creation of affordable housing opportunities for moderate- and low-income households. By leveraging Town-owned lands, Saugeen Shores is taking concrete steps to address housing needs and support a growing, diverse community.

This project and the Affordable Housing on Town-Owned Lands Policy directly supports the Town’s Strategic Plan by meeting the needs of a growing community and diversifying and growing the Town’s housing stock. The Bluewater Lands project is supported in part by the Canadian Mortgage and Housing Corporation’s Housing Accelerator Fund and will be included in the 2026 Business Plan.