Welland puts waterfront land in north end on real estate market

The City of Welland has put nearly 62 hectares of land along the recreational canal north of Woodlawn Road on the real estate market. The Northern Reach as it is called also includes land owned by Welland in Thorold. DAVE JOHNSON / TORSTAR

By Dave Johnson
Courtesy of The Welland Tribune

One of the last remaining pieces of prime waterfront land in Welland is on the market, and the city is excited to see what becomes of it, says chief administrative officer Steve Zorbas.

“It’s a fabulous opportunity for Welland,” said Zorbas of the land, referred to as the Northern Reach.

Up for sale is nearly 62 hectares, with 52.53 hectares in Welland and 8.95 hectares in Thorold. The property runs along the recreational canal from Woodlawn Road north to almost Merritt Road.

Zorbas and economic development manager Lina DeChellis said Welland owns the 8.95 hectares of land in Thorold.

“I believe the city purchased the portion from Thorold about 10 years ago,” said DeChellis, adding the thought was to market the land as one continuous strip.

Zorbas said the two municipalities will work together in the coming weeks as bids for the property start to come in.

“We have a working relationship with Thorold, and we’ll ensure things work for them and the new owner,” said Zorbas, adding the preference is to sell the land to one developer.

The successful developer would have to work with planning departments in the two cities.

“We’re seeking proposals from developers for a landmark residential development with some commercial components that will enhance and improve access to the waterfront and trails,” said Zorbas.

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