Town officials, residents mull over a plan that would eventually double the size of Tecumseh

Tecumseh is moving ahead with a process to finalize what's known as the Tecumseh Hamlet Secondary Plan — developing unused and farm lands in the southern part of the town, which sets out guidelines which would double the population in the area and add a new school. 

A public meeting was held Tuesday, giving residents an opportunity to hear about plans for the development and share their views about what they would like to see. 

Brian Hillman, director of planning and building, said the lands in question — close to the upcoming NextStar electric vehicle battery plant — were previously identified in the town's planning documents for development.

"The purpose of this study is to consider how those lands might develop most appropriately," Hillman told the meeting.

He said the plan is now in its fourth phase, "in which we're leaning into the approvals process to put these lands into an appropriate designation. 

The town has collaborated with planning and urban design consultant DIALOG, and engineering consultant Dillon Consulting Limited, on the plan.

There are approximately 4,000 people living in the area that's being considered for development, and the plan includes building more housing to accommodate doubling the population.

Key infrastructure elements include the extension of roads, trails, and underground services.

Dorsa Jalalian, associate senior urban designer with DIALOG's Toronto office, said the study area is envisioned as a complete, walkable, sustainable and vibrant community in keeping with many aspirations, priorities and objectives.

"We're aiming for a mixed-use community with a unique identity that provides opportunities for all to live in the hamlet with lively and viable commercial nodes, high quality open spaces and a supportive transportation network," Jalalian said.

She said the plan provides for approximately 40 per cent of open space, including parks and natural features.

In terms of housing, "the study area will provide approximately 4,300 residential units and will house 8,800 people," Jalalian added.

She said there is also a designated future school site, with a park centrally located in the neighbourhood, ensuring that children can easily walk or bike to school and benefit from the park's proximity.

The plan has to go to council for final approval. An environmental assessment would then be done before work commences.