Concerns Rise Over Proposed Golf Course Housing Development in Perth

Like many towns in Ontario, Perth is trying to maintain its small-town feel while dealing with fast growth. (Sam Konnert/CBC)

A suggested development that could increase the population of this eastern Ontario town by over a third by placing hundreds of homes on one of Canada’s oldest golf courses is receiving mixed reactions from residents.

The plan from developer Caivan for Perth, Ont., includes 640 detached houses, 299 townhomes, 18 roads, a network of multi-use paths, three parks and stormwater ponds. It’s projected to accommodate between 2,300 and 2,500 people.

“It’s a standing joke that the population sign on Highway 7 never changes from 6,000,” Mayor Judy Brown shared with attendees at a crowded town hall meeting earlier this month. “That’s about to change.”

The size and location of the proposed project have caught the attention – and sometimes raised concerns – among residents.

“I wouldn’t characterize this as a good developer if this is what they’re proposing for us,” local resident Ramsey Hart said during the meeting.

WATCH | A sample of resident opinions:

Perth residents split over building homes on golf course

Residents in Perth, Ont., express their thoughts on the discussion surrounding a proposed subdivision that would expand the town by about one-third while developing land used for one of Canada’s oldest golf courses.

Facing Growth Challenges

Like many smaller Ontario towns near larger cities, Perth – located around 85 kilometers southwest of downtown Ottawa – has had to juggle expected growth with the desire to keep its small-town character intact.

The town’s population was already projected to rise by nearly 25 percent to about 8,100 people by 2038 based on a comprehensive review done in 2019.

“People are worried about losing some of the charm of the town,” Brown mentioned to CBC. “We don’t want it turning into another clone.”

A key topic in this conversation is what will happen with the historic 18-hole Perth Golf Course. Established in 1890, it’s considered Canada’s oldest continuously operating course.

Perth Golf Course, opened in 1890, boasts Canada’s oldest continuously operating links. (Sam Konnert/CBC)

Caivan has acquired the land and intends to shrink the golf course down to nine holes to create space for new housing.

Neither Caivan nor officials from Perth Golf Course responded when asked for comments by CBC regarding this story.

“We want our members to know we aim to keep our operations at an 18-hole capacity through the end of the 2024 season,” stated a letter sent out by the course management.

“If for any reason our operations were to cease due to financial or other issues, then these lands would be available for development.”

Access Issues Raised

A major concern among locals involves access points into the new community.

The area is located just west of downtown Perth and south of Highway 7, almost surrounded by the Tay River. Right now, there’s only one road leading into and out from the golf course via a narrow bridge at Peter Street’s end.

Caivan is proposing building 940 homes on the Perth Golf Course, reducing it from 18 holes to nine. (Caivan)

The developer suggests twinning that bridge; however it would remain as the sole entryway into this new neighborhood. This comes despite findings from a study conducted in 2018 indicating that two separate bridges would be necessary for accommodating future growth in that area.

Certain residents worry that having only one entrance might create bottlenecks which could lead to serious issues during emergencies or high traffic times.

“In my opinion,” voiced resident Jack Tannett at town hall amid enthusiastic applause. “The current access point is fundamentally flawed – I believe it could cost lives.”

Joanna Bowes , director of development services in Perth , agreed , emphasizing how vital multiple access points are during crises like recent tornadoes hitting nearby regions.

“If something happens here , emergency personnel won’t have easy ways in or out ,” Bowes added.The developer wants to twin this bridge over Tay River , but under current plans it remains single access point into new community. Some locals find this unwise. ( Sam Konnert / CBC )

An engineering consultant hired by town found even twinned bridge lacks sufficient alternatives.

“A blockage either side leaves no escape route ,” according report.

‘Adjustments’ Needed

Beyond access worries , Bowes pointed out development isn’t part any long-term planning strategy set forth for city.

“The project conflicts provincial policy statement along with sustainability plans established Lanark County,” she explained referring approved visions outlined growtown’s trajectory.

“That doesn’t mean solutions can’t exist ; we just need tweaks made.”Joanna Bowes , director development services has been leading responses requests concerning proposal Caivan’s vision.( Sam Konnert / CBC )

Cavain has requested amend zoning bylaws allow moves forward developement.

In meantime , Bowes office seeks further investigation key issues drainage parking winter maintenance landscaping overall plan.

“Our duty consider all elements recommended take public feedback continue dialogues whether we believe legitimacy exists” she remarked. 

Bowes informed CBC council still awaiting vital documents from developer including updated environmental impact assessment.

If council disapproves proposal Cavain retains right appeal Ontario Land Tribunal.

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