Regional Council confirms support of Pickering airport

Whitby, Ont. – Durham Regional Council has confirmed its support, in principle, for the development of an airport in the City of Pickering.

“Airports are valuable economic drivers in the development of business, tourism, communities, and the surrounding infrastructure,” said John Henry, Regional Chair and Chief Executive Officer. “With the federal lands in Pickering, we could offer a model of environmentally sustainable airport operations—a contemporary vision of an aerotropolis with a focus on innovation, investment and employment.”

The 8,700-acre site, also known as the Pickering Airport Lands, offers a rare opportunity to create a major employment zone adjacent to a new airport. These lands are ready for oversized infrastructure; designated for a major employment cluster, close to where people live.

“Durham Region is one of the fastest growing municipalities in Canada; a strong sign of our competitive business costs and outstanding quality of life. We want to strengthen our reputation—as one of the best places to live, work, play, grow and invest—adding the connectivity that an airport provides,” said Henry. “An airport could attract companies in aviation, aerospace and related services and industries; creating tens of thousands of high-quality jobs, while complementing our existing transportation infrastructure.”

It can also support one of our largest and most valuable economic drivers: agriculture.

“Before us is an opportunity like no other. We can find common ground between aviation and agriculture; a place where agriculture and tourism meet. Imagine the convenience of stepping off a plane and walking into nature,” continued Henry. “This site could encourage the development and showcasing of modern technology, state-of-the-art farming practices, research and innovation.”

In 1972, Transport Canada set aside land in Pickering for future aviation use. The decision to move forward rests with the federal government.

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For more information, please contact Corporate Communications.