At last night’s Council meeting, Council approved the release of the first draft of the updated Official Plan for public and agency consultation. The draft document represents a significant milestone and achievement within Council's Strategic Plan, highlighting the Town’s ongoing efforts to manage growth responsibly, protect its unique cultural and environmental heritage, and shape a vibrant, complete community for future generations.
The updated draft Official Plan reflects initial feedback received from residents and businesses during the first consultation phase. It also ensures alignment with the Niagara Region’s new Official Plan, the Provincial Policy Statement (PPS 2024), and other relevant legislation. Some sections of the draft Official Plan and mapping have not yet been updated pending work to ensure alignment with other key Town plans such as the Transportation Master Plan and Parks & Recreation Master Plan, and ongoing engagement with Indigenous groups.
The draft plan includes policy updates in key areas such as Growth Management, Housing, Employment and Economy, Agriculture, Climate Change, Cultural Heritage, Transportation and Infrastructure, Urban Design, and Indigenous Engagement. Highlights include support for affordable housing targets, strategies to guide intensification through to 2051, and revised employment policies that promote innovation and knowledge-based industries in Glendale.
Throughout August and September, Town Staff will continue engaging with residents, advisory committees, and stakeholders. Public open houses and a statutory public meeting are being scheduled for Fall 2025. The feedback gathered will help inform a second draft of the Official Plan, which will then return to Council for final consideration and adoption.
The draft Official Plan has also been submitted to the Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing, initiating a 90-day review period, a required step toward formal provincial approval.
The Town thanks its Planning Team for their hard work, professionalism, and thoughtful approach throughout this complex and important process. It is through their efforts that this draft Official Plan is now ready for public consultation.
Residents can access the draft plan and provide input through the Town’s Official Plan Review Join the Conversation page at: www.jointheconversationnotl.org/officialplan
Quotes:
“This is an exciting step in the planning process that reflects Council’s commitment to balancing growth with the preservation of Niagara-on-the-Lake’s heritage, character, and agricultural lands. We are eager to hear more from the community as we move toward finalizing this important document.” – Lord Mayor Gary Zalepa
“The updated Official Plan lays the foundation for a sustainable, inclusive, and forward-thinking future. We encourage everyone in the community to review the plan and share their perspectives during this next phase of engagement.” – CAO Nick Ruller
For immediate alerts, follow the Town of Niagara-on-the-Lake on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.