The County of Prince Edward is expected to see significant growth and development over the next 20 years, according to a forecast included in the new Development Charges Background Study. View the Development Charges Background Study.
Historically, the County was seeing 0.5% growth, but looking forward that is expected to increase to 1-2%. Based on the medium growth scenario, the current permanent and seasonal population of 34,385 is anticipated to reach 38,945 by early 2033 and 43,015 by early 2043.
Residential housing units are also expected to increase in line with the population growth. The current tally of 11,651 units will grow to 13,474 in early 2033 and 14,942 in early 2043. Most of this growth will be in Picton and Wellington, based on Council-approved applications for projects that are underway. Learn more about where this growth is expected.
Anticipating this growth, the municipality is working to ensure that development infrastructure like water and sanitary pipes keeps pace to meet the needs of the thriving community. Several water and wastewater infrastructure improvements are planned in Wellington over the next several years, including a new water tower which has been erected and will be completed later in 2023.
The County is currently preparing a Master Servicing Plan (MSP) for Picton. The MSP, which is expected to be completed in 2023, will review the infrastructure related to transportation, water, and wastewater required to support new development within Picton’s urban boundary.
The County is also considering Picton water supply servicing more broadly through a regional strategy. The study that is currently underway will identify and evaluate drinking water servicing alternatives for the urban centres of Picton, Wellington and Rossmore, as well as for the villages of Bloomfield, Ameliasburgh, Peat’s Point, Consecon and Carrying Place. Learn more
Collecting Development Charges is the primary revenue tool for funding growth-related capital costs. Council will consider a new Development Charges by-law at its meeting February 28. More information is posted online.
While the demand to live in Prince Edward County is intensifying, the municipality strives to ensure all development adheres to municipal plans and the provincial regulatory framework. More information about these requirements is posted on the County website.