The Town of Niagara-on-the-Lake has released the draft of its updated official plan, the document that guides how the town will grow and how its land will be used — this draft contains key changes to the town’s policies on growth, housing, jobs, farming, climate change, heritage and more.
Some of the main points in the plan include support for affordable housing, plans to manage new development up to 2051 and updated job policies to attract innovative and knowledge-based businesses in Glendale (companies that specialize in services such as software development, IT consulting, pharmaceuticals, biotech and telecommunications).
Council approved the release of the first draft for public and agency consultation at a meeting Tuesday night, calling it a significant step in advancing the town’s strategic plan.
The document sets the direction for how the community will grow and evolve over the coming decades, while protecting its cultural and environmental assets.
The draft plan includes early feedback from residents and businesses collected during the first phase of public consultation. It has also been developed to align with the Niagara Region’s new official plan, the 2024 provincial policy statement and other provincial legislation.
Some sections of the plan and mapping are still in development, as the town continues work on related initiatives like the transportation master plan and the parks and recreation master plan. The town is also consulting with Indigenous communities in the area on these plans.
Staff will continue working with residents, stakeholders and advisory committees throughout August and September. Public open houses and a statutory public meeting are scheduled for the fall.
Feedback collected will help shape a second draft, which will be presented to council for final consideration before it’s adopted.
The plan has also been submitted to the Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing, triggering a mandatory 90-day provincial review period.
Residents can view the draft and provide feedback at jointheconversationnotl.org/officialplan.
