Better Neighbourhoods Inc.

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Better Neighbourhoods Inc. Better Neighbourhoods Inc., formerly Barr Associates, has over 40 years of experience in development consulting with land owners, developers and builders.

As specialists in urban infilling and intensification using New Urbanist principles, we believe the development of diverse, mixed-use, walkable, neighbourhoods is essential to increasing property value and fostering sustainability. With a strong bias towards good urban design, we design undeveloped or under-developed sites and manage the approvals and development of projects from concept to completion. We believe mixed-use, walkable, diverse neighbourhoods are the cornerstone of sustainability. This approach creates the greatest land value, which benefits the developer, the local municipality and the neighbourhood. At Better Neighbourhoods Inc. we put the neighbourhood first. This neighbourhood focused design approach enhances the value of the public realm and, in turn, the buildings within it. We believe good urban design is the key to solving many of the complex problems the built environment faces today. Our goal is to provide expertise to create great urban environments that not only add value but are built for people, not just their cars. Located in downtown St. Catharines, much of our work is focused in the Niagara Region. Accordingly, we have developed excellent working relationships with local municipalities and related consulting firms in Niagara. By understanding the local land development context, we can assist our clients by providing good advice, even before planning approvals are sought.

10/01/2026

Before moving forward with a development project, it helps to understand the planning context, opportunities, and constraints that may shape what’s possible.

Our new online professional services are designed to give property owners and developers a clearer picture of their site, with three levels of reporting available depending on the scope of your project.

From initial exploration to more detailed planning considerations, each report provides research and professional insight to help you make informed decisions about your property.

📍 Explore the three report options on our website, or get in touch with our team to discuss what makes sense for your project.

The City of Welland’s draft 2026 Community Improvement Plans introduce a range of proposed incentives to support downtow...
09/16/2026

The City of Welland’s draft 2026 Community Improvement Plans introduce a range of proposed incentives to support downtown revitalization, housing development and brownfield redevelopment.

From grants for building and façade improvements to development charge reductions, environmental study funding and tax-based incentives...these programs could help address financial barriers to reinvestment. We would love to see this bring underused properties back into productive use.

For developers, property owners and community partners, understanding how these programs may apply is an important first step in evaluating future opportunities.

The programs remain in draft form. Funding will be subject to final program requirements, eligibility, availability and City approval.

Comment “Welland CIP” to receive our summary straight to your inbox!

If you need help determining whether your project qualifies for CIP rebates, or have questions, reach out. We would be happy to help.

urban design l urban development l community improvement plan l welland ontario l CIP l better neighbourhoods

09/10/2026

We’ve got a longer one for you today, but this discussion is a timely one for our community.

Dan and Karl sat down on location to discuss the development that was recently unanimously rejected at 447 and 449 Geneva St. The project was a proposed 50-unit, four-story infill apartment building that would have spanned the two properties.

Recent flooding concerns in the area were a major source of concern that impacted this decision…and of course, we can see why. What residents just went through with two back-to-back floods was traumatic to say the least.

That being said, we don’t necessarily think we need to pause development. The planning approval process is rigourous and designed to ensure compatibility and address safety concerns (including flooding).

Like many municipalities in Ontario, we are in an infrastructure deficit. We have aging infrastructure and we are dealing with the consequences of past planning decisions and the side effects of sprawl.

Infill needs to occur and as Dan says in the video: “Somethings’ gotta give.”

What are your thoughts on this council decision?

09/02/2026

What if the answer to more housing is already in our neighbourhoods? 🏘️

Our project, 6 Ann Street in Thorold is an excellent example.

By retaining the existing home and reconfiguring two lots, we introduced a new three-storey, eight-unit rental building into the neighbourhood. The missing middle hosing typology makes better use of existing urban land while adding much-needed housing choice.

Located close to downtown, transit, shopping, and everyday amenities, the development supports a more walkable lifestyle - while a context-sensitive design helps it fit within the surrounding neighbourhood.

It’s a small-scale project with a bigger idea behind it: creating more homes by finding new opportunities within the neighbourhoods we already have.

There’s nothing better than hearing that our clients felt supported from start to finish.From initial concept drawings t...
08/31/2026

There’s nothing better than hearing that our clients felt supported from start to finish.

From initial concept drawings through rezoning and all the way to Council approval, our goal is to take the complexity out of the development process and keep projects moving forward.

Thank you to our client for trusting Dan, Swati, and the Better Neighbourhoods team to help bring their vision to life.

Have a project in mind? Reach out to discuss about what’s possible.

08/25/2026

What if we designed more housing around connection, community and the way people actually want to live?

Inspired by the principles of New Urbanism, The Fold on Emmett brings eight boutique bungalows together around shared landscaped courts, welcoming front porches and downtown Fonthill just steps away.

The result is a small-scale neighbourhood that feels comfortable, connected and distinctly human-scale.

Our team had an informative tour with , exploring how thoughtful infill can create places that strengthen neighbourhoods while respecting their context.

While every community has unique opportunities and constraints, the principles behind projects like The Fold, prioritizing walkability, shared spaces, human-scale design and contextual development, can help shape better neighbourhoods in many different settings.

If you're interested in learning more about these beautiful rentals, reach out to . 🏡

08/21/2026

We asked Dan what would matter most to him if he were the client.

His answer reflects the values at the heart of everything we do: maximize value, minimize risk, and create something that leaves a positive legacy.

It’s a powerful reminder that great design isn’t just about how a place looks. It’s about what it stands for, who it serves, and the impact it leaves behind.

urban design l urban development l development firm GTA l urban planning

07/24/2026

Material selection is never just about appearance.

These choices reinforce a sense of place, and help homes feel distinct without disrupting the character of the streetscape.

From a New Urbanist perspective, architecture should support human connection. That means designing neighbourhoods that feel authentic, timeless, and rooted in their local context rather than relying on trends or repetition.

When materials are selected with intention, they help shape a neighbourhood that people are proud to call home.

07/23/2026

Not every project needs to start over.

Changing market conditions don't always mean a development has reached a dead end. Sometimes, it simply needs a new perspective.

At Better Neighbourhoods, we help developers evaluate existing plans, identify new opportunities, and reimagine projects that are better aligned with today's market, regulations, and buyer demand.

Whether it's improving housing mix, increasing feasibility, or unlocking hidden value, a thoughtful redesign can make all the difference.

If you're sitting on a project that no longer works the way it once did, let's explore what's possible.

Learn more or get in touch today.

07/21/2026

We are back with another episode of Imagining STC, this time sharing our thoughts on patios!

How often have you sat at a patio that looks directly at a parking lot?

It doesn’t have to be this way! Dan and Karl discuss insights from their travels and a local example we love.

What are you favourite patios in the city?

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190A Ontario Street
Saint Catharines, ON
L2R5K9

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Monday 8am - 5pm
Tuesday 8am - 5pm
Wednesday 8am - 5pm
Thursday 8am - 5pm
Friday 8am - 5pm

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