Estimated reading time: 3 minutes
The Region of Niagara is comprised of twelve municipalities in Southern Ontario. Each municipality represents a unique combination of agricultural, commercial, industrial, multi-residential and hospitality opportunities. Over the next few months we will be presenting a market snapshot of significant areas within the Niagara Region.
Today, we will be examining the Town of Pelham, located in southwest Niagara between the City of St. Catharines and the City of Welland. The Town is surrounded by the Niagara escarpment and the Welland River. Pelham has long represented a strong farming and agriculture industry, but has recently emerged with a strong residential industry anchored by a surplus of construction firms. Through Pelham’s, East Fonthill Secondary Plan, the Town's strength in attracting commercial and residential real estate developments continues to grow.
Providing a plan for development
Long term growth within Niagara, has been directed to the Southern municipalities. Under the Grow South vision, Pelham is appointed as a community for both economic and residential growth. In response, the town developed a “secondary plan for development” in order to strategically frame the communities structure to offer exciting opportunities for investors. This plan opens the door to commercial and residential developments and more specifically to the development of a medical facility, a retirement residence, a community centre and four residential communities. Realization of the plan is expected by 2031, with a projected addition of 1,100 homes to the community.
Labour force
The professional, scientific and technical services industry leads Pelham’s work force, followed by construction, real estate and retail trade. The agriculture industry that helped to establish Pelham, remains a strong part of the economy however, Pelham is home to a relatively weak industrial market.
Transportation
Pelham is connected to the QEW from Highway 20, which provides access to Toronto, the Niagara region and the US market. It’s direct location next to Welland allows quick access to both Highway 406 into St. Catharines and Highway 58 into Port Colborne.
Due this proximity, Pelham is also relatively close to the St. Lawrence Seaway which provides access to ocean ports across the world. The town also has access CN rail linkage via Welland.
Major commercial and residential developments will play a significant role in Pelhams projected growth over the next 15 years. As the real estate industry grows within Pelham there will be a significant need for commercial developments in order to provide new residents with the desired amenities. For an indepth look into the Town of Pelham’s East Fonthill Secondary Plan click here.
