Why Port Dover’s revived waterfront is a valuable opportunity for developers

Canoeing and kayaking on the open water. Lakefront trails for biking and exploring. Picturesque sunsets that change with the seasons. In the coming years, the redevelopment of the Lynn River and Silver Lake waterfronts is set to transform the shores of Port Dover into a four-season lifestyle destination. There is one redevelopment property in particular that also presents an exciting opportunity for developers to shape one of southwest Ontario’s most vibrant and dynamic communities.

A classic summertime—or anytime—destination

On the shores of Lake Erie, Port Dover’s waterfront is both a throwback and a glimpse into the future. First developed as the village of Dover Mills in the 1700s, Port Dover blossomed into a vibrant town thanks to the opening of the Welland Canal.

Over time, Port Dover evolved into the quintessential small town. Boasting a charming main street lined with shops, a bustling rail stop servicing regional industries, and a vivacious summer scene featuring a dance hall, a Ferris wheel, sandy beaches and a garden pavilion, it attracted day trippers from Toronto and Hamilton. In the 1930s, the town possessed the largest freshwater fishing fleet in the world.

While that golden era may have passed, Port Dover remains bursting with possibilities.

Ushering in a new era

Designated by the municipality as an urban development, the three parcels of land located at the convergence of Lynn River, Black Creek and Silver Lake offer a glimpse into the future of this beloved lakefront area.

With a combined 3.33 hectares (8.24 acres) on offer, these lands, in the heart of Port Dover, offer a prime opportunity to re-envision the charming waterfront town as a landmark residential community, with shops and restaurants that honour the area’s rich marine tradition, plus so much more.

Setting a new standard for lakeside living

Just 750 metres from Port Dover’s famous beach and 1.6 kilometres from Port Dover Harbour Marina, the site will offer residents and visitors easy access to the water, and give visionaries the opportunity to set a new standard for lakeside living.

Looking out on the water, it’s not hard to imagine what that might look like—sweeping common areas, rooftops and balconies overlooking the lake, trails made for a morning run or a leisurely afternoon stroll, amenities built for everyone to enjoy. The site is approved for up to 375 residential units, which could include a mixture of townhome products, mid-rise buildings and 350 square metres of commercial usage. The lands also provide plenty of room for parks and parking.

Everything within reach

It’s not just the possibilities for Port Dover’s waterfront itself that make these lands so appealing.

While everything residents could possibly want—including the Port Dover Yacht Club and Links at Dover Coast golf course—is nearby, Norfolk County is a prime yet underrated location for micro-breweries, wineries and eco-tourism. Norfolk County also provides easy access to necessities like the Norfolk General Hospital, located in the town of Simcoe, 14 kilometres northwest of Port Dover. Simcoe is the largest community within the county, and it provides additional variety to the already ample options for fun and entertainment found within Port Dover’s borders.

And whether residents need to visit for work or play, major municipalities are within easy reach. Hamilton is just an hour away, and Kitchener, Waterloo, London, St. Catharines and Niagara Falls are all within an hour-and-a-half’s drive.

The site boasts a rare and exciting opportunity to define a new lifestyle within southwestern Ontario. Amongst the beauty, history and growing opulence Port Dover has to offer, this landmark redevelopment site is primed to make waves in a community that harbours endless potential.

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