Grey, Wellington, and Dufferin Counties officially launched the Green Development Program on October 13, celebrating a new regional framework designed to recognize residential developments built for long-term affordability, energy efficiency, and climate resilience.
The launch event took place at the Baybounds Presentation Centre in Meaford, a net-zero housing development currently under construction by Sinclair Homes. Local officials, industry representatives, and program partners toured a net-zero show home and discussed the initiative's goals.
Developed in partnership across the three counties and supported by funding from Natural Resources Canada’s Codes Acceleration Fund, the voluntary initiative provides builders and developers with a consistent framework to accelerate sustainable building practices. Projects are evaluated across 18 features spanning the natural environment, community and transportation, and the built environment, earning Bronze, Silver, or Gold recognition based on their overall score. Any new residential development receiving occupancy after January 1, 2025, is eligible to participate free of charge, with no impact or delay on standard municipal approval timelines.
At the launch event, four initial developments from Grey and Dufferin counties were recognized for incorporating sustainable features.
Baybounds by Sinclair Homes in Meaford achieved Gold recognition with 26 points. Its first phase includes 55 fully electric units equipped with cold-climate heat pumps, heat pump water heaters, rooftop solar installations, and Level 2 EV chargers, along with native landscaping and enhanced trail access.
Elements of Meaford by Sarlie Canada earned Silver recognition with 18 points as the first project submitted to the framework. The 26-unit mixed-use project features off-site prefabricated wood framing to reduce waste, an expanded tree canopy, and downtown walkability upgrades like wider sidewalks and public gathering spaces.
Baycrest Apartments by SkyDev in Owen Sound received Silver recognition with 16 points for a 712-unit development featuring high-efficiency lighting, low-flow water fixtures, EV charging, and naturalized outdoor social areas with community gardens.
Finally, Five Creek Estates by Great Gulf in Orangeville received Bronze recognition with nine points for a 103-unit development featuring native plantings, pedestrian-friendly streetscapes, cycling infrastructure, and transit access.
Municipal leaders highlighted how the program supports local economies and communities.
“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.”
Program representatives emphasized that true affordability extends beyond the initial purchase price to what it costs to live in a home.
“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. 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.”
The overarching vision aims to connect environmental goals with practical benefits for local municipalities.
Builders and developers interested in participating can submit an interest form through their respective county portals at Dufferin County, Grey County, or Wellington County.
