This report analyses policies in the Ontario government's Growth Plan for the Greater Golden Horseshoe (Places to Grow) relating to Urban Growth Centres (UGCs) and transit corridors. These are defined as mixed-use, high-density, and public transit-oriented developments that are to provide a focus for employment and population growth in the region. The report surveys the history of the policy, and examines several existing centres and transit corridors to determine how well they meet the goals of the UGC policy and what barriers prevent their further development. The report concludes with recommendations to support the policies and foster the development of UGCs.

Pierre Filion is a professor at the School of Planning, University of Waterloo.