The designation of special economic zones is part of a new omnibus law that Ford's government says is designed to speed up the construction of large infrastructure projects, particularly mines.

Webequie First Nation is leading an environmental and impact assessment of the Webequie Supply Road that would connect to mining exploration activities in the Ring of Fire.

The Residential Construction Council of Ontario, a vocal critic of the standard, has suggested it's adding to housing costs.

Major construction work is being delivered by a joint venture of AtkinsRéalis and Bird Construction alongside design partner Hatch.

Several municipalities are taking active steps to reject the powers now that they have been granted more widely.