ClubLink, owner and operator of the Kanata Golf & Country Club, has announced plans to pursue options for alternative use of the golf course lands. ClubLink has partnered with developers Minto Communities and Richcraft Homes to assist with community engagement and redevelopment plans for the property.

“Golf courses are struggling across the country, and particularly in saturated markets like Ottawa. Participation levels have declined and people are playing less golf while operating costs continue to rise,” said Rob Visentin, ClubLink’s senior vice-president of investments, in a press release. “Ottawa is a vibrant, growing city and we believe there is an opportunity to better utilize this 70 hectares of land to meet the interests of the community.”

“This is a special opportunity to have such a significant piece of property inside the city’s urban boundary that can be designed to reflect the community’s needs – such as much needed new housing for families, and high quality public green spaces,” added Brent Strachan, Ottawa division president at Minto Communities. “We look forward to contributing to a project that we as a company and the broader community can be proud of.”

Beginning early this year, ClubLink, Minto Communities and Richcraft Homes will begin a community engagement process that will inform a land-use plan for the property. City of Ottawa officials will also be closely involved in this process to ensure the plan is supportive of the city’s priorities of liveability and smart growth.