A long-neglected industrial site in Milton has undergone a major transformation, paving the way for a future mixed-use neighbourhood. What was once a contaminated industrial property is now being prepared for over 1,000 new homes, green spaces and modern infrastructure. This redevelopment aims to reconnect the community with 16-Mile Creek while supporting the region’s growing housing needs. The cleanup effort took several years, multiple partners and a significant investment — but the result is a safer, cleaner and more promising future for downtown Milton.
1. Overview of the Milton Redevelopment
The redevelopment covers more than 20 acres along Steeles Avenue East, where the former Meritor Suspension Systems Company operated from 1954 to 2009. Neatt Communities now plans to convert this land into a vibrant, walkable neighbourhood that features housing, trails, commercial areas and a restored natural heritage system.
2. History of the Former Industrial Site
For decades, the site was home to vehicle suspension manufacturing. Over time, industrial processes contributed to soil and groundwater contamination, particularly around the main factory building. The building was demolished in 2021, allowing full remediation to begin.
3. Why Cleanup Was Necessary
Town of Milton officials confirmed that contaminants were found across several areas of the site. These pollutants posed environmental and public safety risks, making cleanup essential before any development could move forward.
4. Phase One: Major Remediation Work
Phase one included large-scale environmental work such as:
- Temporary sediment control pond installation
- Full removal of contaminated soil
- Grading and drainage improvements
- Ongoing soil testing to ensure safe conditions
Key Remediation Stats
| Work Completed | Details |
|---|---|
| Contaminated soil removed | ~20,000 truckloads |
| Concrete recycled onsite | 22,460 tonnes |
| Cleanup investment | $35 million |
| New naturalized area added | 13 acres |
| Native species planted | 6,500 |
5. Phase Two: Restoration & Environmental Improvements
Phase two expanded efforts into areas regulated by Conservation Halton and Halton Region. This included woodland and wetland restoration, natural habitat expansion and additional soil testing. Groundwater contamination was treated onsite, ensuring long-term environmental stability.
6. Investment Overview and Key Numbers
Neatt Communities invested approximately $35 million in total cleanup and restoration. This major investment sets the stage for a large residential and mixed-use development that aligns with regional housing goals.
7. Proposed Milton Community Development Plan
The new community will include a blend of residential, commercial and natural areas, featuring:
- 1,083 new residential units
- At-grade commercial spaces
- New roads and public infrastructure
- Trails and green zones
- A stormwater management pond
8. Housing Types and Density Breakdown
The proposed development includes:
- 1,001 apartment units
- 82 townhouse units
- Four condo buildings (6–10 storeys)
- One mixed-use building (8 storeys with retail)
- Three-storey townhouse blocks
Parking will include 1,442 vehicle spaces (mostly underground) and 1,160 bicycle parking spots to support active transportation.
9. Infrastructure & Public Space Upgrades
To support the new community, upgrades are required in:
- Water and sewer systems
- Public roads
- Stormwater management
- Parkland & natural heritage networks
These upgrades will eventually become public infrastructure for the Town of Milton.
10. What Comes Next for Phase Two
Phase two will require an additional zoning bylaw amendment to finalize land uses. Once approved, development will move into the next planning stage, including design refinement and municipal servicing agreements.
11. Community Benefits and Long-Term Impact
This project will:
- Convert a contaminated industrial site into a safe, livable community
- Add over 1,000 much-needed housing units
- Grow natural heritage lands by 13 acres
- Improve downtown walkability
- Bring new commercial activity
- Support long-term environmental health
The developers note this is a rare opportunity to create a “dynamic, walkable community” in a well-established part of Milton.
12. Final Thoughts
The cleanup and redevelopment of this site marks a major milestone for Milton. By blending housing, green areas and community infrastructure, the project aims to support both environmental renewal and urban growth — even if some parts of the process took a little longer than expected