The Municipality of Clarington is starting a review of its Official Plan –
the road map that guides how Clarington will grow to 2056.

The Municipality of Clarington will launch the Growth Management Study (G.M.S.) at the May 11, 2026, Planning and Development Committee at 5 p.m. Join us in Council Chambers at 40 Temperance Street in Bowmanville or watch the presentation online at www.clarington.net/calendar to learn more.

This study will help us understand how our community is expected to grow and what types of homes, jobs, and services we’ll need in the future. It will also guide where new development should happen so Clarington can grow in a way that’s responsible, sustainable and well‑planned.

Drawing of speech bubbles with trees inside

What is an Official Plan, and why are we reviewing it?

The Clarington Official Plan is our main policy document that establishes the long-term vision for our Municipality, manages growth and development, and guides capital investment decisions now and into the future.

Our Official Plan sets aspirations for what we want our Municipality to become. It affects every resident, business, and landowner in Clarington. Council decisions about development applications, neighbourhood needs and functions, and capital investments must align with the Official Plan.

The Official Plan is our strategic planning document that guides the physical, social, environmental, and economic development of a municipality to ensure land and resources are used efficiently and sustainably and to protect public health and safety.

Municipalities are required to update their Official Plans every five years.

The Clarington Official Plan is due for a review to:

  • Ensure the vision for the Municipality continues to meet the community’s evolving needs.
  • Align with recent changes in provincial policy and legislation and the Regional planning framework.

If you have comments, require further information, or would like to be added to the project mailing list, please email OPReview@clarington.net. Follow this project page to stay up to date on upcoming meetings, engagement opportunities, and reports.

Introductory Discussion Paper

Staff have prepared an Introductory Discussion Paper about the Official Plan Review. This paper will help you understand why the Official Plan is important, how it needs to change, and what opportunities we have to ensure our Plan covers what matters most.

Growth Management Study

The Clarington Growth Management Study (GMS) will look at how our population, housing, and jobs are expected to grow by 2056. It will review local and regional trends, examine whether we have enough land for homes and businesses, and consider if and when new areas may need to be added to our urban boundary. The study will provide policy recommendations to help guide Clarington’s Official Plan Review and support thoughtful, well-planned growth.

This study will review and plan for Clarington’s population, housing, and employment growth to 2056 by: 

  • Assessing local and regional demographic and employment trends. 
  • Evaluating urban land supply and employment lands. 
  • Developing policy recommendations aligned with provincial and municipal frameworks.