At tonight’s Committee of the Whole – Planning Meeting, Council will review an update on the Town’s Official Plan, including a proposed work plan to guide the process for revisions and approval by October 2025. Council’s 2022-2026 Strategic Plan identifies the adoption of a new Official Plan as a high-priority action item.
The Town’s Official Plan update will align with recent provincial policy changes, provincial plans, the newly approved Niagara Official Plan, and planning for local priorities. The Town’s Official Plan is required to conform to these documents. A recently hired Manager of Policy and Heritage Planning, Steve Burke, will lead the review process.
Key policy areas for review include growth management (2051 planning horizon/population & employment forecast), intensification policies/targets, natural heritage system policies and mapping, agricultural system policies, employment areas designation and policies, secondary planning policies, housing policies and watershed planning.
The work plan includes key milestones such as public consultations, stakeholder engagement, and collaboration with provincial authorities. Public meetings and events will provide community members with opportunities to share their input and help shape the plan.
This update reflects Niagara-on-the-Lake’s commitment to thoughtful planning, sustainable development, and community involvement. Further details on public engagement opportunities will be shared as details are confirmed.
Read the Recommendation Report, and tune in to tonight’s meeting at 6:00 p.m. online or attend in person at Town Hall (1593 Four Mile Creek Road, Virgil).
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Media Contact:
Marah Minor, Communications Coordinator
905-468-3266 | communications@notl.com