09-05-2025
Pilot program aims to fast-track housing construction in Barrie
A new pilot program is in the works that could help fast-track housing construction in Barrie by easing up-front costs for builders.
Barrie Mayor Alex Nuttall directed city staff to create a Development Change Deferral Program aimed at stimulating new development and supporting the creation of much-needed housing across the city. The initiative is being designed as a 12-month pilot and would allow eligible builders to delay paying development charges - a fee currently due before a building permit is issued.
Instead of requiring the full payment upfront, developers would be able to defer charges interest free until either the date the building is occupied or two years after the permit is issued, whichever comes first.
"This is about getting homes built faster and reducing the red tape that slows down construction,' said Nuttall. 'By deferring development charges up front, we're giving builders the flexibility they need to get shovels in the ground and deliver the housing our community desperately needs.'
Details of the program, including eligibility requirements and the application process, have yet to be released.
