Media Release: Central Elgin Council Moves Forward on Planning for Former Hospital Lands

Central Elgin Council has taken a significant step toward the future of the former Psychiatric Hospital Lands by approving the Final Policy Directions and Land Use Plan, along with the Draft Official Plan Amendment (OPA) for public consultation. This milestone sets the stage for creating a vibrant, inclusive, and connected new community on the site.

The approved Policy Directions and Land Use Plan reflect Council’s Vision and Guiding Principles and incorporate feedback from residents and stakeholders. They provide a clear framework to guide future planning and form the policy foundation for the draft OPA.

The draft OPA introduces a new policy section to the Central Elgin Official Plan specific to the Hospital Lands. It establishes the planning framework to guide the long-term, phased development of a new mixed-use community.

“Council’s approval of the Policy Directions and Land Use Map marks an important step toward creating Central Elgin’s newest community as a thriving and inclusive place to call home,” Mayor Andrew Sloan. “I’m pleased that the feedback we received from the community has been incorporated into these plans. I encourage residents to remain engaged as the project moves into the next stage of the planning process.”

Resident and stakeholder feedback has played a key role in shaping these documents. Input received during Round 1 Engagement in fall 2025 helped clarify heritage direction, strengthen parks and public space planning, and improve overall policy precision.

• Heritage: Heritage-related policies were updated to provide clearer guidance for conservation and commemoration and to strengthen recognition of the site’s cultural and institutional history.
• Parks, Public Spaces & Community Facilities: Adjustments include clearer identification of a public plaza within the Downtown Mainstreet area, refinements to park locations, and a broader framing to community facilities to reflect a wider range of potential public uses.
• Housing, Servicing & Phasing: Policy direction was clarified to improve certainty and readiness for implementation, while maintaining the overall land use structure and community framework previously endorsed by Council.

Have Your Say: Round 2 Community Engagement

With Council’s approval, the Municipality will now proceed with consultation on the draft OPA. Residents have another opportunity to provide input and help shape the future of the former Hospital Lands.

Upcoming Engagement Opportunities:

• Public Open House: Tuesday, February 24, 4 p.m. – 7 p.m. Masonic Centre of Elgin, 42703 Fruit Ridge Line

• Statutory Public Meeting: Monday, March 2, 6 – 8 p.m. Central Elgin Council Chambers, 450 Sunset Drive

The draft OPA is the next key step in the statutory planning process for the Former Hospital Lands. Residents are encouraged to share input to help inform the final OPA for Council’s consideration.

Project information, engagement materials, and updates are available at letstalkcentralelgin.ca/ReimagineHospitalLands.