This is the OFFICIAL PLAN SUMMARY from the Pickering PLANNING DEPT.
What is the Official Plan?
The Official Plan is the City’s long-range document that guides land use decision-making in the City. It represents the vision for growth and change within the City. The policies within the Official Plan ensure that growth occurs responsibly and that resources are used efficiently and sustainably. An Official Plan deals with issues such as:
- where new housing, industry, offices and shops will be located;
- what services will be needed to support growth, such as roads, water mains, sewers, parks, and schools;
- creating opportunities for residents to connect socially, culturally, as well as preserve and enjoy the natural environment;
- when, and in what order, parts of the community will grow; and
- where, and how, the City will invest in community improvements.
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Why is the Official Plan being updated?
The Planning Act of Ontario requires that Official Plans be reviewed every five years to ensure they conform to Provincial legislation, policy, and plans. Council and staff have been diligent to maintain conformity with Provincial and Regional planning documents through amendments to the Plan, on an as-needed basis, since 2007. However, recent changes to Provincial legislation, policy, and plans, mean that a comprehensive review is now required.
In addition, the City of Pickering is projected to experience significant growth in the coming decades. This growth in population will require an increase in infrastructure and amenities to meet the needs of residents.
Paul Wirch RPP
Principal Planner
City Development
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For more about the official plan, “PICKERING FORWARD,” for the future of Pickering, visit the City of PICKERING website at www.pickering.ca where one can search for more information about the official plan for the future of Pickering.
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