Frequently Asked Questions

Why there is a need of OCP Review?

Why is the OCP important?

How does an OCP help us reach our community goals?

Who uses an OCP? Who does it affect?

Council, municipal staff, developers and professionals (architects, engineers, planners, landscape architects, etc.) use the OCP to understand what the community wants as it relates to the delivery of housing and other land uses (types, character), transportation services, infrastructure and amenities.

They also use the OCP to understand which areas are suitable for the development and which are not (environmentally sensitive areas, steep slopes, hazardous areas, etc.). The public can use the OCP to gain a better understanding of local issues and how they are planned to be addressed or what changes may happen in their neighbourhood.

Why is there such a focus on land use and development policy?

Land use planning facilitates the orderly development of land, resources, infrastructure and services, with a view to securing the economic, environmental, social and cultural well-being of urban and rural communities. The driving force in planning is often the need for change, the need for improved management or the need for a different pattern of land use, dictated by changing investment circumstances.

Why is public input needed?

An OCP Review involves significant public involvement from the beginning to the end so that goals and policies reflect community concerns and hopes for the future. During an OCP update, the review process is open, transparent, and requires broad input from residents, elected officials, staff, and stakeholders. It is the Town’s goal to engage residents of all ages and walks of life to participate in a wide number of activities over the life of the review.