Niagara-on-the-Lake is holding two sets of open houses on Oct. 15 and 16 to gather public feedback on two long-standing issues: the town’s new official plan and the future of the former hospital site.
“Residents will have opportunities to learn more and share feedback on both the official plan and the former hospital site project,” the town said in a news release.
“While the official plan sets the long-term vision for how the town will grow and develop, the former hospital site is a key property that represents a significant opportunity for community use and redevelopment.”
The new official plan updates the town’s 2019 version to align with regional and provincial regulations, including the 2022 Niagara official plan and the 2024 provincial planning statement.
Covering a wide range of responsibilities, the official plan guides town policies for five years and makes projections 25 years into the future, including expectations for how NOTL’s population will grow. The town released the second draft of the plan last Wednesday.
The former hospital site, located at 176 Wellington St., once housed a medical centre that included a hospital. The town acquired 2.32 acres of the property from Niagara Health Services in 2018.
Today, the site includes a Niagara Region EMS centre, an ambulance station, a registered massage therapist’s office, a telecommunications tower and the Royal Oak Community School.
The town is now seeking public input on how to use the remaining land. The official plan designates the area for open space and community facilities, while the zoning bylaw lists it as institutional. However, the town said changes could be considered “based on community feedback.”
Suggestions for the site include a wellness centre and a community arts hub.
“We’re looking forward to getting additional feedback through those open houses,” said Kirsten McCauley, the town’s director of community and development services.
All sessions will take place at local community facilities:
Oct. 15 – Niagara-on-the-Lake Community Centre
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Former hospital site: 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. (Simpson Room), and 4 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. (Auditorium)
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Official plan: 4 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. and 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m., with a presentation at 7 p.m.
Oct. 16 – Mary Snider Room, Centennial Arena, Virgil
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Official plan: 4 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. and 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m., with a presentation at 7 p.m.
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Former hospital site: 6 p.m. to 8 p.m.
