SDG COUNTIES, Ontario - The St. Lawrence Parks Commission (SLPC) is proud to support the Township of South Stormont’s vision for a revitalized waterfront by transferring five parcels of land to the municipality. This strategic move supports the Township’s Waterfront Development Plan and reflects SLPC’s commitment to community engagement, infrastructure modernization, and regional tourism growth.
The properties being transferred are located along the St. Lawrence River and include sites identified by the Township as priorities for revitalization and public access: Ingleside at the base of Dickinson Drive, Hoople Creek, two parcels at the Long Sault Parkway and Highway 2 intersection, and Lakeview Park. These locations were highlighted in South Stormont’s Waterfront Development Plan as key to creating vibrant, accessible waterfront spaces.
"This is a truly historic day for South Stormont," said Mayor Bryan McGillis. "Over many years, multiple councils, staff members, and community partners have worked toward this goal. To see these lands transferred into local ownership is incredibly rewarding and something our community can be proud of. It creates opportunities for future generations to better connect with and enjoy our waterfront, while building on one of South Stormont's greatest assets."
Adopted by South Stormont Council in 2021, the municipality’s Waterfront Development Plan envisions year-round access to revitalized waterfront spaces that enhance quality of life, support tourism, and stimulate economic development. SLPC’s land transfer unlocks these parcels for public use and investment, enabling new recreational amenities such as beaches, a boardwalk, boat, kayak and canoe launches, spray pads, dog parks, and seasonal markets. These amenities will complement SLPC’s Parks of the St. Lawrence camping and day-use offerings, encouraging longer stays and repeat visits.
“Supporting our communities is essential, and the St. Lawrence Parks Commission is leading by example,” said Stan Cho, Minister of Tourism, Culture and Gaming. “As SLPC works to revitalize and protect the long-term economic and tourism potential of their parks, beaches and attractions, their collaborative efforts with South Stormont will ensure people in eastern Ontario will have modern, sustainable public spaces that drive tourism while celebrating our heritage, culture and natural beauty.”
This initiative directly supports SLPC’s Strategic Plan, Strengthening our Foundation for a Sustainable Future commitments of enhancing guest experiences, fostering regional tourism growth, and building strong municipal partnerships.
“This land transfer marks a major step forward for tourism in eastern Ontario,” said Nolan Quinn, MPP for Stormont-Dundas-South Glengarry. “By working together, we are enhancing our waterfront spaces so that residents and visitors alike can make lifelong memories, while strengthening our tourism industry to protect and build SDG’s economy.”
Since 2018, SLPC has focused on transforming relationships with local communities. This land transfer is a tangible example of that commitment, achieved through collaboration and shared planning with South Stormont.
“This land transfer reflects SLPC’s commitment to community-first engagement and infrastructure modernization, ensuring our parks and partnerships deliver lasting benefits for residents, guests, and local economies,” noted Honourable Bob Runciman, Chair of the St. Lawrence Parks Commission. “By supporting South Stormont’s waterfront plan and transferring these five waterfront parcels for public use, SLPC is helping create spaces that align with its long-term vision of vibrant, sustainable communities across eastern Ontario.”
This collaboration builds on SLPC and the Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Gaming’s (MTCG) recent announcement of $82.2 million investment in infrastructure modernization. Proceeds from the land transfer will offset costs for planned essential infrastructure upgrades connecting key SLPC properties to municipal services. This initiative reinforces SLPC’s fiscal responsibility while advancing shared goals with the Township of South Stormont.
For more information on the South Stormont Waterfront Development Plan, visit www.southstormont.ca/waterfrontplan.