Land requirements for the City of Barrie and the Townships of Oro-Medonte and Springwater
As Ontario’s Greater Golden Horseshoe continues to expand, savvy real estate investors are looking north—and Barrie is at the epicenter of what's next. Strategically located, rapidly growing, and backed by clear planning and infrastructure commitments, Barrie represents one of the most attractive real estate development markets in the province.
The recently published Joint Land Needs Study reveals a powerful growth story—one where the opportunity is real, and the time to act is now. Let’s break down why now is the time to invest.
We Bridge the Gap Between Landowners and Investors
As land specialists, we understand both sides of the equation.
Landowners want fair value and a smooth exit strategy
Investors want scalable projects with growth upside
Municipalities need complete communities — and the planning framework is already underway
Our job is to align everyone’s interests and bring real opportunities to life. Contact us to see how we can help
What Makes Barrie & Simcoe a Strategic Bet?
This region is more than a northern escape from the GTA — it’s one of the fastest-growing corridors in Ontario, driven by migration, infrastructure expansion, and its strategic position along Highway 400.
South Barrie is rapidly transforming into a regional employment and residential hub.
Oro-Medonte and Springwater offer untapped potential with available land and access to growing economic corridors.
The area benefits from key infrastructure like Lake Simcoe Regional Airport, and pending highway interchanges (like McKay Rd & Hwy 400).
The Provincial government is actively involved, prioritizing this region for both residential and employment growth.
This isn’t speculation—it’s happening. And it’s backed by regional and provincial planning efforts.
Key Metrics That Matter
The numbers in the Land Needs Study speak volumes:
62,400 new housing units needed in Barrie by 2051
Shovel-ready land is in short supply, especially for large industrial and commercial users
Over 145 hectares of employment lands are needed in the near term
A shortfall of 265–630 hectares of community area land is forecasted due to overly optimistic density assumptions
Vacant lands in Oro-Medonte and Springwater are already in development, tightening future supply
These metrics create a simple truth: Barrie and surrounding areas will run out of developable land under current plans—and those who secure it early will be positioned to lead.
Policy – What’s Coming Down the Pipeline?
Provincial and municipal governments are laying the foundation for long-term development. Here's what’s in motion:
Municipal boundary expansions are being seriously considered to meet Barrie’s projected residential demand.
South Barrie Employment Lands are prioritized for infrastructure servicing and funding agreements with developers are already in place.
The Provincial Land and Development Facilitator is actively guiding the process to ensure growth aligns with Ontario's broader economic and housing goals.
Oro-Medonte and Springwater are initiating Master Plans for transportation, servicing, and growth—designed to support future land use intensification and employment clusters.
Highway 400 corridor is recognized as a strategic economic zone for industrial development, backed by highway and rail access.
This planning framework signals a green light for development and investment in all three municipalities.
The Bottom Line
If you own land in Barrie, Oro-Medonte, or Springwater, your land could be the key to solving the region’s housing and employment needs.
“The land is there, the need is growing, and the policies are moving fast. If you’re in the land game, Barrie-Simcoe is the play.”
Is Your Land the Key to Barrie’s Next Boom?
Whether you're buying, selling, or just exploring your options — we're here to help you make the most of your land.
Reach out directly or fill out the form below.