Clarington is developing a bold new vision for its 34 kilometres of waterfront along Lake Ontario. Our goal? To create a vibrant, accessible, and sustainable waterfront that serves residents, welcomes visitors, and protects the environment—now and for generations to come.

Learn more below and take the feedback survey before July 28, 2025, for a chance to win a $250 VISA gift card.

What the Renewed Strategy Will Do

In 1992, Clarington launched a 30-year Waterfront Strategy to improve public access and increase land ownership along the lakefront – and so much has been achieved since then! Building on that progress, we’re now shaping a renewed vision for the next 30 years – one that will:

• Enhance public access to green spaces and the lakefront
• Preserve the natural environment to strengthen shoreline resilience and biodiversity
• Support thoughtful growth with high-quality parks and amenities
• Promote year-round recreation and tourism opportunities
• Celebrate the unique character of the waterfront communities located along our 34-km shoreline

Grounded in Community Feedback

Extensive public input on Clarington’s waterfront was collected in 2022 and as part of the Parks, Recreation and Culture Master Plan (PRCMP) in 2023. This collective data and community input helped define the draft Vision & Guiding Principles. Here's what we've heard from you so far:

• 85 per cent of PRCMP survey respondents support additional public investment in Clarington’s waterfront
• Prioritize protecting the natural environment and planning sustainably
• Expand trails, improve active transportation links, and enhance wayfinding
• Strong interest in a more vibrant commercial presence and year-round activities such as outdoor skating, cultural events, and watercraft access
• A desire for an accessible, public-oriented waterfront with amenities, events, and attractions
• Broad support for increased public investment in parks, recreation, and cultural facilities

A clear vision is essential, as it sets the long-term direction and unites around a shared purpose. It inspires action, guides priorities and ensures that all decisions contribute to a cohesive, future-focused outcome.

The Overall Draft Vision:
Clarington’s waterfront is a vibrant, accessible destination where community, nature, parks, and heritage meet. Our shoreline thrives through ecological resilience, connected trails, diverse recreation, and economic vitality. By focusing on sustainable growth, cultural preservation, and public access, we’re creating a legacy that enriches the lives of residents, captivates visitors and establishes a legacy of stewardship for generations to come.

To support the implementation of this draft Waterfront Vision, four guiding principles have been developed to establish a framework and set priorities for future decision-making.

The Draft Guiding Principles:

• Environmental Stewardship: Protect and enhance the natural environment, including the Lake Ontario shoreline, wetlands, and wildlife habitats.
• Economic Viability: Foster a vibrant and sustainable waterfront economy that supports local businesses, attracts investment and tourism, and creates employment opportunities.
• Public Access, Connection and Enjoyment: Ensure equitable, safe and inclusive access to the waterfront for all residents and visitors.
• Design Excellence and Cultural Heritage Preservation: Create high-quality and impactful public and private realm, while also recognizing, protecting, and celebrating the rich cultural heritage of the waterfront.

We invite you to click through the five distinct experiences on the map below to learn about the draft vision for five distinct experiences along Clarington’s connected waterfront, including: Courtice Waterfront, Bowmanville Waterfront, Newcastle Waterfront, Agricultural Heritage and Port Granby Nature Reserve.