Transfer will further develop parkland to advance tourism, community growth, and economic opportunity
Long Sault – Nolan Quinn, MPP for Stormont-Dundas-South Glengarry was proud to announce that the Ontario government has transferred five waterfront properties along the St. Lawrence River to the Township of South Stormont, further driving tourism and long-term economic growth in SDG. This transfer from the St. Lawrence Parks Commission (SLPC) to the Township builds on the government’s historic $82 million investment to revitalize campgrounds and beaches along the St. Lawrence River, protecting a premier tourism destination in Ontario.
“This land transfer marks a major step forward for tourism in Eastern Ontario,” said Nolan Quinn, MPP for Stormont-Dundas-South Glengarry. “By working together, we are enhancing our waterfront spaces so that residents and visitors alike can make lifelong memories, while strengthening our tourism industry to protect and build SDG’s economy.”
The five properties transferred to the township are situated along the St. Lawrence River and had previously been designated by the Township as priority spaces for revitalization in council’s Waterfront Development Plan. The transferred properties include Ingleside at the base of Dickson Drive, Hopple Creek, two parcels at the Long Sault Parkway and Highway 2 intersection, and Lakeview Park.
“Supporting our communities is essential, and SLPC is leading by example,” said Stan Cho, Minister of Tourism, Culture and Gaming. “From the recent restoration of the historic Battle of Crysler Farm site in South Dundas, to initiating the transfer of land that will advance South Stormont’s waterfront plan, which includes multi-use paths and trails, public spaces, and new recreational amenities, these initiatives demonstrate a strong commitment to local growth and heritage.”
This land transfer unlocks these parcels for public use and investment, enabling new recreational amenities such as beaches, a boardwalk, boat, kayak and canoe launches, spray pads, dog parks, and seasonal markets. These amenities will complement SLPC’s Parks of the St. Lawrence camping and day-use offerings, encouraging longer stays and repeat visits that will boost SDG’s local economy.
“This land transfer reflects SLPC’s commitment to community-first engagement and infrastructure modernization, ensuring our parks and partnerships deliver lasting benefits for residents, guests, and local economies,” noted Honourable Bob Runciman, Chair of the St. Lawrence Parks Commission. “By supporting South Stormont’s waterfront plan and transferring these five waterfront parcels for public use, SLPC is helping create spaces that align with its long-term vision of vibrant, sustainable communities across Eastern Ontario.”
“We’ve been working toward this moment for a long time and seeing it come to life is incredibly rewarding. This land transfer will open new opportunities for our residents and local businesses, activating waterfront spaces to strengthen our economy and enhance quality of life, said Mayor Bryan McGillis of South Stormont, welcoming the announcement. “SLPC’s commitment to building stronger relationships with communities is clearly reflected in this partnership. We’re proud to be part of it.”
For more information on the South Stormont Waterfront Development Plan, visit www.southstormont.ca/waterfrontplan.
QUICK FACTS
- SLPC is an agency of the Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Gaming, and one of the largest tourism destinations in eastern Ontario. The Parks include thousands of hectares of park land and attractions that provide a major source of recreational opportunities for residents and visitors.
- In 2025, the Government of Ontario invested $82.2 million to enhance infrastructure along the St. Lawrence Corridor, including the construction of upgraded, environmentally friendly facilities at Mille Roches Beach and Campground.
- Proceeds from the land transfer will offset costs for planned essential infrastructure upgrades connecting key SLPC properties to municipal services. This initiative reinforces SLPC’s fiscal responsibility while advancing shared goals with the Township of South Stormont.
MEDIA CONTACT
Adrian Bugelli
Office of MPP Nolan Quinn
613-933-6513
Nolan.Quinn@pc.ola.org