Scugog hears key planning presentation on agricultural growth in North Durham

DARRYL KNIGHT Local Journalism Initiative Reporter for The Standard

SCUGOG: The Township of Scugog’s Planning and Community Affairs Committee received a forward-looking presentation, on Monday, April 14th, as Rob Rappolt, Planning Consultant with WSP Canada, delivered key findings from the North Durham Agriculture-Related and On-Farm Diversified Uses Study.

The study, a joint initiative between the Region of Durham and the Townships of Scugog, Uxbridge, and Brock, aims to modernize local planning frameworks and support the future of farming in North Durham.

“This work provides a thoughtful and tailored approach, to help municipalities support farm-based businesses, while balancing local and provincial planning goals,” said Mr. Rappolt, addressing council members. “We heard loud and clear from the agricultural community: make it easier to start and grow diversified farm operations, and give us clarity.”

The study outlines how agriculture-related uses, such as grain processing or feed supply companies like Wallenstein Feed and Supply, and on-farm diversified uses, such as restaurants or agri-tourism initiatives, like Willowtree Farm’s Down Home Restaurant, can be better supported through updated planning tools. These uses are seen as vital to supporting economic viability in rural areas, provided they remain compatible with surrounding farmland and meet provincial guidelines.

“We’ve listened and built a framework which strikes the balance between flexibility and good planning outcomes,” Mr. Rappolt said. “Farmers told us they need more clarity and less red tape. This plan offers that.”

The recommendations call for updated policies, in local Official Plans and Zoning By-laws, as well as a more streamlined site plan approval process. Many uses would be permitted “as-of-right,” meaning they wouldn’t require additional council approval, if they meet the established criteria. Mr. Rappolt noted, the proposed framework encourages the reuse of existing buildings, protection of environmental features, and a minor site plan process for simpler applications.

Alongside the recommendations, WSP introduced an Application Toolkit, intended to guide applicants through the new process. It includes a step-by-step checklist and pre-application guidance, with the goal of removing unnecessary barriers, while ensuring appropriate oversight. “The toolkit is designed to be practical and adaptable,” Mr. Rappolt explained. “We expect it will continue to [develop] based on feedback from staff and the farming community.”

Scugog’s Manager of Planning, Valerie Hendry, presented a staff report recommending Council endorse the approach outlined in the study. “These changes will help position North Durham as a leader in agricultural innovation and rural economic development,” said Ms. Hendry. Her report advised staff be directed to prepare draft Official Plan and Zoning By-law amendments, and begin the public consultation process, required under the Planning Act.

The total cost of the study was shared equally between the Region and the three participating Townships, with each contributing $10,000. The final recommendations and planning amendments are expected to be brought forward between April and June 2025.

Members of the public, who previously expressed interest, were notified about the April 14th presentation. Further engagement opportunities will be offered as the project moves ahead.

“This is about ensuring our farmers can thrive and innovate,” Mr. Rappolt concluded. “It’s planning with purpose—for the people who feed us and the communities they support.”