Windecker Woods

At 215 Windecker Road in Cayuga, a local flower farm has expanded beyond traditional agricultural production to become a unique rural destination that celebrates agriculture, education, and tourism. With support from Haldimand County's Rural Business and Tourism Community Improvement Plan (CIP), the business transformed an existing barn into a welcoming event space, creating new opportunities for visitors while strengthening the local economy. 

The flower farm had already established itself as a popular seasonal attraction, welcoming visitors for pick-your-own flower bouquets, farm tours, photography sessions, and pumpkin picking. Looking to build on this success, the owners proposed an on-farm diversified use that would allow them to host weddings, experiential dinners, flower workshops, and educational programming centered around agriculture and locally grown flowers. 

Bringing this vision to life required significant investment. Converting an agricultural building into a public assembly space involved structural upgrades and improvements to meet Ontario Building Code and Fire Code requirements, as well as enhancements that would create a safe, accessible, and inviting environment for visitors. 

In 2022, Haldimand County Council approved funding of up to $52,386 through the Rural Business and Tourism Community Improvement Plan to support the over $90,000 project. Funding was provided through the Façade, Landscape and Signage Improvement Grant, the Building Restoration, Renovation and Improvement Grant, and rebates for eligible development charges, planning fees, and building permits. 

The project included improvements to both the interior and exterior of the barn. Exterior work included a new entrance with replacement doors, porch posts, and an awning, along with a rear patio and walkway to enhance accessibility and create additional outdoor gathering space. Interior renovations included structural roof upgrades, insulated walls, emergency lighting, new public washroom facilities, and a septic system to accommodate increased visitor capacity. These improvements ensured the building met the requirements for assembly occupancy while preserving an existing agricultural structure for a new purpose. 

Today, the renovated barn allows the business to offer experiences that complement its farming operation with special events. This development encourages visitors to spend more time in Haldimand County while supporting local tourism and showcasing the region's agricultural heritage. 

This project demonstrates how the Rural Business and Tourism Community Improvement Plan helps local businesses diversify their operations, invest in existing buildings, and create new visitor experiences. By helping offset redevelopment costs, the program supports private investment, encourages agricultural innovation, and contributes to a stronger rural economy. 

RBTCIP Program: Façade, Landscape and Signage Improvement Grant, Building Restoration, Renovation and Improvement Grant and Development Charge, Planning Fees and Building Permit Grant

Year: 2022 

RBTCIP Contribution (Grant): $49,153