On Friday, May 1, 2026, Hanover Mayor Sue Paterson and West Grey Mayor Kevin Eccles were joined by members of their respective Councils; Minister of Rural Affairs, Lisa Thompson; Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing Parliamentary Assistant, Brian Saunderson; Bruce-Grey-Owen Sound MPP, Paul Vickers; and Grey County Warden Andrea Matrosovs, to formally announce the provincial ministerial order that will transfer just over 1,600 acres of land from the Municipality of West Grey to the Town of Hanover, effective May 1, 2026.
The boundary adjustment is expected to attract investment, create jobs, provide more housing choices and drive economic growth, aligning with provincial goals for development and prosperity. The transferred lands are strategically located near existing Town of Hanover municipal servicing and identified settlement areas. Agricultural lands within the transferred lands can continue to be farmed for as long as there is a desire to do so, and any future development on the transferred lands will be required to comply with local and provincial planning policies.
The May 1, 2026, ministerial order marks a historic milestone for southwest Grey County, demonstrating a collaborative spirit between municipalities that prioritizes the future of residents and aims for mutual benefit and shared prosperity.
The Town of Hanover and the Municipality of West Grey continue to look to the future and are excited about the potential that this historic agreement will provide for the residents of both municipalities.
More information about the boundary adjustment transition for properties located within the transferred lands can be found on the Town of Hanover’s website or by contacting the Town of Hanover directly at 519-364-2780.
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Media Contacts:
Sherri Walden, CAO, Town of Hanover
519-364-2780, ext. 1228 | swalden@hanover.ca
Michele Harris, CAO, Municipality of West Grey
519-369-2200, ext. 222 | mharris@westgrey.com
Quotes
“This boundary adjustment agreement between the Town of Hanover and the Municipality of West Grey is truly a best-in-class example of what can be achieved when municipalities work together in the best interest of their communities. Our government remains committed to creating the conditions needed to deliver more local housing and support responsible growth — not only in Grey County, but in every corner of Ontario.”
Rob Flack, Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing
“The transfer of land from the Municipality of West Grey to the Town of Hanover is a wonderful example of collaboration between two neighbouring municipalities who are working together to create opportunities that will benefit the local region. I applaud this leadership and vision that will ultimately generate rural economic development and that will translate into good jobs, close to home.”
Lisa Thompson, Minister of Rural Affairs
“Our region is an attractive place to live and do business. The Hanover area has tremendous pressure to grow, but a lack of available land for development has stalled major progress. Thanks to forward-looking collaboration with West Grey, we achieved a mutually beneficial agreement that can help unlock the economic power of this area for the benefit of Grey County residents and businesses for generations.”
Sue Paterson, Mayor, Town of Hanover
“This ministerial order is a strong step forward for West Grey, Hanover, and southwest Grey County. It reflects real collaboration and sets the stage for long-term growth — supporting future housing, jobs and investment while ensuring a smooth transition for affected property owners.”
Kevin Eccles, Mayor, Municipality of West Grey
“I commend the Municipality of West Grey and the Town of Hanover for working collaboratively and finding a solution that benefits the communities now, and well into the future. This progress strengthens the entire region, laying the foundation for responsible growth, more housing, and economic prosperity.”
Andrea Matrosovs, Warden, Grey County
