Economic Development
With its strong agricultural roots, compact urban communities and convenient access to North America's major markets, the Town of Essex presents an attractive investment environment for industrial, commercial and tourism development. Award winning wineries, fertile and productive crop lands, strategic transportation linkages, innovative industries and a willing workforce support our economic diversity.
Our picturesque waterfront wanders along the north shoreline of Lake Erie and has become a popular destination for cyclists, winery tours and agri-tourism events, historic excursions, sport fishing and lakeside activities. A visit to the Canadian Transportation Museum and Heritage Village, the Essex County Steam and Gas Engine Museum and the John R. Park Homestead – among various other stops – will help you learn about our rich heritage.
We provide a full range of municipal services, active and healthy communities, and wide ranging business opportunities. New industrial land is being added to the Official Plan, and commercially zoned properties are ready for development. To help in your decision to invest with us, our economic development office and municipal staff would be pleased to meet with you in confidence to discuss your plans. Contact us for answers to your questions about development opportunities and local development policies and incentives.
Essex Centre
Conveniently located in the centre of the County, Essex Centre is the largest of the Town’s four urban areas. Visit the beautiful greenery of Sadler’s Pond, check out the historic scenes of Heritage Gardens, or shop at any of our charming local boutiques and services. Highway 401, a main transportation route from larger urban areas, is also just minutes away from Essex, providing easy and convenient access to and from this vibrant community.
Harrow
Harrow is rooted in heritage and offers a number of unique culinary, cultural, and retail experiences. For over 170 years, it has hosted the Harrow Fair, the oldest county fair in Ontario. With a growing downtown core, Harrow is also home to a burgeoning artisanal scene. The Harrow Fair has stayed true to its heritage with strong emphasis on highlighting the products of local farmers and celebrating the agritourism that makes our Town so special.
Colchester
A waterfront community situated on the shores of Lake Erie, Colchester is best known for its award-winning wineries, picturesque harbour, and beautiful public beach. Colchester hosts an annual walleye derby that attracts visitors from across the region. As one of the earliest settlements in the area, Colchester’s history dates back to the War of 1812 and the Underground Railroad, reflecting the rich heritage that continue to shape both Colchester and the entire Town of Essex today.
McGregor
With its strong roots in agriculture, McGregor is known for its outdoor sports activities at Co-An Park and the annual McGregor Music Festival. It is home to the Essex County Steam and Gas Engine Museum, Ontario’s largest steam engine museum, as well as the museum's annual festiva celebrating agricultural history and innovation. Locals and visitors alike can also explore the historic St. Clement’s Parish, originally built in 1902: by still serving the community today, this monument showcases McGregor's tight-knit nature.