Clarington Council approves the Soper Hills Secondary Plan: a connected and walkable community in east Bowmanville

Clarington Council has approved the Soper Hills Secondary Plan, establishing a long-term planning framework for a connected and walkable new community on the east side of Bowmanville. 

Covering approximately 193 hectares, Soper Hills will guide the development over time of a mix of housing types, new elementary schools, a central neighbourhood centre, and a connected network of streets, sidewalks, trails, and parks designed to support everyday living. 

With a strong focus on walkability, cycling, transit access, and the protection of natural features and green spaces, Soper Hills is planned as a complete community where neighbourhoods, amenities, and open spaces are closely connected. 

“Planning like this is essential to make sure our community grows responsibly into our vision for the future of Clarington. The Soper Hills Secondary Plan is how we encourage development that builds walkable neighbourhoods with lots of different types of housing, new schools, and central shops. Over time, this area will become a compact, lively, connected community for its residents,” said Clarington Mayor Adrian Foster. 

What’s in the Soper Hills Secondary Plan?  

A range of housing to support a growing population 

With an estimated population of about 13,000 residents, the Secondary Plan supports the development of approximately 5,900 dwelling units through a mix of housing types. From low-density homes to medium- and higher-density residential buildings, Soper Hills is planned to accommodate households at different life stages and support a balanced, inclusive community. 

A neighbourhood centre close to home 

A centrally located neighbourhood centre is envisioned along Concession Street East. Designed to be pedestrian-friendly, the Secondary Plan outlines a mix of shops, services, and offices to support daily needs and foster local connection within walking distance of nearby homes. 

Schools woven into the community

The Secondary Plan includes space for new elementary schools located next to neighbourhood parks or parkettes that can be safely and conveniently accessed by walking and cycling.  

Parks, trails, and access to nature

Parks and open spaces are outlined as a defining feature of Soper Hills. The Secondary Plan includes neighbourhood parks and smaller parkettes woven throughout the community, with locations to be refined as development progresses. A larger‑than‑usual neighbourhood park is planned south of Concession Street East to preserve the topography of the area and offer a variety of recreational spaces.  A connected network of sidewalks, trails, and multi-use paths will link homes with parks, schools, local destinations and the surrounding natural environment.  

Protecting natural features as the community grows 

Environmental Protection Areas play an important role in the Secondary Plan, helping protect significant natural features and ecological functions. Where appropriate, public access through trails will be carefully designed to conserve ecological integrity while allowing residents to enjoy nearby natural spaces. 

Looking ahead 

With the Soper Hills Secondary Plan approved, future development will move forward through separate planning applications, such as plans of subdivision and site plans, supported by detailed technical studies. Development will occur gradually over time, guided by the vision set out in the Secondary Plan. 

Learn more at www.clarington.net/SoperHills.