Perth East building activity surges ahead of last year's pace

A new poultry barn takes shape east of Shakespeare along Perth Road 106, contributing to a significant increase in agricultural construction values across Perth East in 2026. Gary West photo

By Gary West

Construction activity in Perth East is off to a strong start in 2026, with building values for both agricultural and residential projects well ahead of where they were at the same time last year.

A comparison of first-quarter building statistics shows significant growth in new construction throughout the township, something that has become increasingly evident with new homes, farm buildings and commercial development taking shape across the municipality.

Coun. Andrew MacAlpine said he was surprised by the increase in construction values when the figures were presented to council earlier this year.

According to the township's building department report for the end of March, the value of new agricultural construction reached $3.79 million in 2026, compared to $450,000 during the same period in 2025.

Residential construction also saw a substantial increase, with building values climbing to $1.75 million compared to $900,000 during the first three months of last year. Those figures include new homes as well as additions to existing residences.

One of the township's largest residential projects is now underway on the south side of Milverton.

Mayor Rhonda Ehgoetz said the new subdivision will include a mix of housing types, featuring 27 single-detached homes, 28 semi-detached homes and 17 street townhouses.

The development will also include commercial and industrial lands, stormwater-management infrastructure and a pumping station.

Ehgoetz noted council received a report on the development, along with a zoning bylaw amendment and draft plan of subdivision, in May 2024. The approvals were granted while the property was still owned by Jeff Bateman.

The property was purchased by O'Malley Homes, owned by Jon and Derek O'Malley, in September 2025, and development is now underway.

As part of the project, an additional entrance has been constructed from Perth Road 131 to serve the new subdivision.

The increase in construction activity reflects continued investment in Perth East's agricultural sector while also meeting the growing demand for housing throughout the township.