What is north Markham's Future Urban Area and how will it change the area?The Future Urban Area is about 1,300 hectares of north Markham between Major Mackenzie Drive and Elgin Mills Road, roughly from Woodbine Avenue and the hydro corridor east to Warden Avenue and Robinson Creek. The City’s Conceptual Master Plan targeted about 12,000 homes and 16,000 to 19,000 jobs, planned in blocks such as Berczy Glen, Angus Glen and Robinson Glen. Water and sewer servicing largely sets the pace at which farmland becomes new neighbourhoods.
For owners near 19th Avenue, Elgin Mills and Major Mackenzie, the fields to the north will not stay fields forever. Understanding how the City plans that change helps you think about traffic, schools and long-term value.
Michael John Lau, a REALTOR® with the Kaizen Real Estate Team, one of the most active real estate teams in Markham and York Region, follows north Markham planning so clients can make decisions with the bigger picture in mind.
The area at a glance
| Item | Conceptual Master Plan figure |
|---|---|
| Total area | About 1,300 hectares (3,200 acres) |
| Developable | About 975 hectares |
| Natural heritage | About 325 hectares |
| Planned homes | About 12,000 to 13,000 |
| Planned jobs | About 16,000 to 19,000 |
Figures are from the City’s 2016 interim Conceptual Master Plan and may change through later secondary plans.
How land becomes neighbourhoods
- The Official Plan includes the land in the urban area.
- Secondary plans and block plans set roads, parks, schools and densities.
- Water and sewer servicing must be built or allocated.
- Subdivision approvals and construction follow, phase by phase.
Why servicing sets the pace
The plan relies on new water pressure districts, pumping stations and sewer connections south toward the regional system. Until servicing is in place, approved land can sit for years. That is why timelines in north Markham often move slower than headlines suggest.
Own a home in north Markham?
Michael John Lau can explain how nearby planning may affect your plans and your home’s value.
Request a home evaluationSearch Markham homesPrefer to talk? Call the Kaizen Real Estate Team at (647) 370-8885.
What it may mean for nearby owners
- More traffic on Major Mackenzie, Elgin Mills, Woodbine and Warden during construction and after.
- New schools, parks, shopping and road links over time.
- A larger supply of newer homes competing with resale nearby.
- Construction noise and dust in the near term.
Following the process
Watch Development Services Committee agendas and statutory public meetings for the blocks near you. Ultimately, the decision is yours. The goal is to make sure you have all the information to plan your next move.
Growth is coming to north Markham. Knowing the process helps you plan around it. Call the Kaizen Real Estate Team at (647) 370-8885 or book a consultation.
Frequently asked questions
What is the Future Urban Area in Markham?
About 1,300 hectares of north Markham planned for new communities between Major Mackenzie and Elgin Mills.
How many homes are planned?
The City's Conceptual Master Plan targeted about 12,000 to 13,000 homes.
Which communities are included?
Planning blocks include Berczy Glen, Angus Glen and Robinson Glen, plus an employment block.
When will it be built?
In phases, largely depending on when water and sewer servicing is available.
Will it affect traffic?
Likely, on roads such as Major Mackenzie, Elgin Mills, Woodbine and Warden.
Where can I follow the plans?
On Markham Development Services Committee agendas and public meeting notices.
Michael John Lau and Neeraj Moolchandani are licensed REALTORS® with the Kaizen Real Estate Team, eXp Realty, Brokerage, 9763 Markham Rd, Markham, ON L6E 1A4. Licence #4784577. Call (647) 370-8885. Area, home and job figures and servicing details are from the City of Markham Conceptual Master Plan for the Future Urban Area (interim report, October 2016). Later plans may differ; confirm current status with the City of Markham. This article is general information only and is not financial, legal or tax advice. Not intended to solicit buyers or sellers currently under contract with another brokerage.
