Derek Baldwin

Mar 07, 2022  •  16 hours ago  •  3 minute read  •   Join the conversation

A proposed $1.54 billion development is in the offing replete with a 370-hectare mixed-use resort, hotel and residential complex with the existing marquee Black Bear Ridge Golf Course at its nucleus.

Pending proper approvals, resort facilities and more than 3,000 new homes are proposed to encircle the award winning golf course opened on Harmony Road in Thurlow Ward in 2005 by the late developer Brian Magee whose vision for his legacy project was to draw visitors from across Canada and beyond.

A big supporter of Belleville for decades, Magee died just before his 77th birthday in July 2020.

Belleville city council has convened a special meeting Tuesday to hear developers from Black Bear Ridge GP Inc. publicly roll out in a deputation plans to construct one of the largest developments in the city in living memory.

City council will be asked to support an application by developers for a “Minister’s Zoning Order (MZO) as requested by Black Bear Ridge GP Inc. and reviewed by the City’s Solicitor, Templeman LLP, for a fully serviced resort area on the lands located near Harmony Road and Highway 37,” the city outlined in its agenda for the special meeting to be held in open council chambers.

“There will be a deputation by Alex Sharpe of Black Bear Ridge GP Inc. and Mike Pettigrew of the Biglieri Group,” the city confirmed Monday.

Council will also be asked to “approve and authorize the execution of a cost recovery agreement between The Corporation of the City of Belleville and Black Bear Ridge GP Inc., be prepared for council’s consideration.”

According to an economic impact analysis by consultant urbanMetrics Inc., retained by the developers, the new concept would create $53.7 million in annual business output.

The new destination golf and resort destination would encompass a “new mixed-use residential and resort recreational community on approximately 370 hectares” that would draw upon the amenities of the 27-hole championship golf course that offers a driving range, teaching academy, pro shop and club house, the consultant stated.

“The physical build-out of the Black Bear Ridge residential and resort recreational community is to involve some $1.5 billion in initial one-time spending and $45.6 million in development charges revenue for the City of Belleville,” said urbanMetrics Inc. in its analysis.

Completing the sprawling project would create 12,380 jobs over the construction period and hundreds of full-time jobs when complete and operational.

“Upon its completion, the development concept will result in nearly $17.6 million in annual (recurring) property tax revenues and water/wastewater revenue to the City of Belleville,” the firm said.

The vision for the development is on a grand scale, according to the analysis report.

“A mix of low-density and seniors housing are proposed to the south, east and west of the existing golf course. In total, as many as 3,049 housing units could be accommodated on the subject site that will provide a range and mix of affordability,” urbanMetrics wrote.

“The subject site will also accommodate a mix of recreational uses, resort accommodations, a spa, event space located throughout the concept plan. In total, the proposed non-residential uses could results in the development of approximately 415,000 square feet of space.

“The improved and expanded recreational and resort facilities will be important in drawing tourism to the City of Belleville and provide employment opportunities for local residents.”

The special council meeting begins at 4 p.m. Tuesday.