October 30, 2025

Hanover and West Grey exploring boundary adjustment to support long-term economic growth

The Town of Hanover and the Municipality of West Grey have announced an agreement in-principle to adjust boundary lines between the two municipalities and to proceed with next steps under the Municipal Act, 2001 to establish a Boundary Adjustment Agreement for both Councils’ consideration.

During this term of Council, representatives from both municipalities have been engaged in discussions to consider growth and prosperity in Hanover and West Grey, with the goal of moving development forward for the mutual benefit of ratepayers in both municipalities.

The proposed “Mutual Prosperity” boundary adjustment will encourage more investment and economic opportunities, including new employment options, more housing accommodations, and increased assessment for the region, while aligning with provincial growth targets.

The proposed “mutual prosperity” lands encompass approximately 1,600 acres that would be transferred from West Grey to Hanover. In exchange for the transfer of lands, Hanover will provide financial compensation to West Grey in the amount of $10 million, paid over a period of 20 years.

“Our region is an attractive place to live and do business. The Hanover area has tremendous pressure to grow, but a lack of available land for development has stalled major progress,” said Hanover Mayor Sue Paterson. “Thanks to forward-looking collaboration with West Grey, we have identified a mutually beneficial path forward that can help unlock the economic power of this area for the benefit of Grey County residents and businesses for generations.”

Collaboration and shared goals have been crucial to reaching a potential boundary agreement. Over the past year, West Grey and Hanover Councils have focused their discussions on ensuring that the ratepayers of both municipalities will derive long-term benefit from the outcomes of any potential boundary adjustment.

“There have been frank discussions over the past year to ensure we are collectively considering the impact of any recommended changes for the long-term sustainability of our communities,” says West Grey Mayor Kevin Eccles. “Both municipalities recognize the potential for growth in this area of the County and we’ve worked together to recommend an equitable solution that will benefit both municipalities well into the future.”

The proposed lands identified for consideration in a boundary adjustment will support growth near existing municipal servicing and identified settlement areas. Farmland within the proposed area may continue to be farmed indefinitely and there is no requirement for any property owners to develop their lands as a result of a boundary adjustment. All future development will be required to comply with local and provincial planning policies.

West Grey and Hanover are hosting a public meeting about the proposed boundary adjustment on Wednesday, November 19, 2025, at the Elmwood Community Centre beginning at 6:30 pm.

Further information, including full map and a list of properties considered in the boundary adjustment, as well as a list of frequently asked questions can be found on www.westgrey.com and www.hanover.ca

 

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