Cambridge residents have two opportunities to provide feedback on major planning projects that will influence the future growth of the community during a pair of public meetings on May 5, 2026.
The City of Cambridge is hosting these meetings to discuss the Preston Secondary Plan and the Northwest Hespeler development proposal. These plans are part of the city’s broader efforts to manage significant population growth, which is projected to reach 215,000 residents by 2051, up from approximately 138,479 in 2021.
The meetings will take place at Old City Hall, located at 50 Dickson St. This plan has been broadened to include neighbourhoods surrounding the core area and will outline rules for future development, including establishing a protected zone around the proposed King Street East and Eagle Street transit station. This area is intended to support higher density and transit-oriented development. Residents who wish to learn more before the formal meeting can attend an open house on April 27 at the Preston Memorial Auditorium.
While the planning process continues, the future of the Region of Waterloo Stage 2 light rail transit expansion, estimated at $1.36 billion, remains under evaluation with alternative options like bus rapid transit still being considered. Ward 3 Coun. Corey Kimpson has emphasized the importance of continuing with the Preston planning process regardless of the final transit decision, noting that stalling development projects can send negative signals to those looking to build in the city.
A separate public meeting will also be held on May 5 to address a large development proposal in Hespeler. Northwest Hespeler Community Builders Inc., a coalition of developers including Mattamy Homes, Cachet Homes, and Greybrook Realty Partners, is proposing to develop nearly 500 acres to accommodate up to 3,800 residential units and approximately 11,000 new residents. This proposal has been the subject of a dispute, with the developers filing a motion with the Ontario Land Tribunal after the city did not accept their initial application.
