FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
Middlesex County Seeks Public Input on Pre-Approved Additional Residential Unit Designs
MIDDLESEX COUNTY, ON – Middlesex County is inviting residents, builders, and members of the agricultural community to participate in a public survey to help inform the development of a new Build Ready Housing Design Program for Additional Residential Units (ARUs).
The program is supported by federal funding awarded to the Municipality of North Middlesex through the Government of Canada's Housing Accelerator Fund (HAF). The funding, confirmed by the Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC), is part of a $42-million reinvestment in 32 high-performing municipalities across Canada to support continued progress in housing development.
Through a coordinated partnership with Middlesex County, the program will provide pre-approved housing designs that can be used by residents, builders, and the agricultural community, with the program being rolled out to all eight local municipalities across Middlesex County.
The public survey will help identify local preferences and design considerations to ensure the program reflects the needs of the communities it is intended to serve. Feedback received will help guide the development of a housing design catalogue featuring practical and adaptable housing options.
The public survey will remain open until November 27, 2026.
What is an Additional Residential Unit?
An Additional Residential Unit (ARU) is a self-contained dwelling located on the same property as a principal residence. While ARUs can take many forms, including basement apartments, additions to existing homes, and garage suites, the six draft designs for Middlesex County are all detached units.
ARUs provide flexible housing options for families, seniors, caregivers, and renters while making efficient use of existing neighbourhoods and infrastructure.
What is the Build Ready Program?
The Build Ready Program aims to make it easier and more affordable for property owners to create additional housing by providing access to pre-reviewed building designs.
By selecting a design from the catalogue, homeowners can save time and costs associated with developing plans while helping to increase the supply of housing throughout Middlesex County.
Have Your Say
Residents are encouraged to review the draft designs and complete the online survey by November 27, 2026.
Survey Link:
https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/8DTN9DN
Feedback collected through the survey will help inform the final design catalogue.
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Middlesex County is an innovative, well-run organization offering high-value programs and services to the best community in which to live, visit, and do business in Southwestern Ontario. The County serves a vibrant, growing community of 89,000 people and offers a great place to call home, offering exceptional lifestyle, a wide variety of local attractions, and wonderful sense of community.
MEDIA CONTACT:
Middlesex County Media Relations
Legislative Services Division
@email