What is a community improvement plan?
Under the Planning Act, 2001, the City of Wrenford can offer financial help to property owners and developers. A community improvement plan (CIP) lets the City provide grants, loans, or cost coverage to make improvements in specific areas. These plans help reach the goals in the City of Wrenford Official Plan by encouraging investment, protecting heritage, and adding housing where it is needed most.
Active plans
Downtown Revitalization Community Improvement Plan
This plan covers the downtown grid centred on Mercer and Tamsin Streets. It focuses on bringing life back to older buildings and keeping the historic character intact. Eligible projects include:
- Facade improvements and heritage restoration
- Accessibility upgrades, like ramps and wider entrances
- Restoring vacant commercial spaces for new businesses
If your property falls within the downtown boundaries, you may qualify for a grant of up to $10,000.00 for eligible exterior work. You must complete the work within one year of receiving approval.
Housing Infill Community Improvement Plan
This plan supports the creation of missing middle housing and accessory dwelling units across established neighbourhoods like Benchlands, Eastfield, and Northgate. The City wants to help you build more housing without changing the feel of your street. Eligible projects include:
- Building a secondary suite or laneway house
- Adding a duplex or triplex to a lot currently zoned for a single detached home
- Upgrading existing rental buildings to improve energy efficiency
The City covers the cost of planning applications, zoning by-law amendments, and building permits for qualifying infill projects. This removes the upfront fees that often delay housing projects.
How to apply
Applying for a community improvement plan is straightforward. Follow these steps:
- Check the map or contact Planning and Development staff to see if your property is inside a plan boundary.
- Gather your property details, a project description, and cost estimates.
- Submit your application package to the Planning and Development department.
- Wait for a decision. The City aims to review complete applications within 45 business days.
You can drop off your paperwork in person at Planning and Development, 3rd Floor, Wrenford City Hall, 100 Mercer Street, or email it to [email protected]. If you need help filling out the forms, stop by the Service Wrenford counter at City Hall or call 519-555-0100.
Fees and funding limits
Each CIP has a set budget and specific rules. Here is what you need to know:
- Downtown Revitalization CIP: Grants cover up to 50% of eligible costs, with a maximum of $10,000.00 per property. You must pay for the work before the City reimburses you.
- Housing Infill CIP: The City pays the direct application fees for zoning by-law amendments, consents, and building permits. There is no grant payout, but the fee coverage can save you thousands of dollars.
- Application fee: There is no charge to apply for a CIP grant or fee waiver.
If your project is part of the Facade Improvement Assistance Program, the application window runs from March 1 to April 30 each year. The Housing Infill CIP accepts applications on a rolling basis throughout the year.
Need more information?
Community improvement plans are just one way the City supports growth. If you are looking for broader neighbourhood rules, read the Official plan summary. For grants that help green your property, see Beautification and greening grants. If you need a business licence to operate after your project is finished, visit Business Licences.
For questions about your specific property or the application process, email [email protected] or call the Planning and Development office at 519-555-0100.