Ontario Construction News staff writer
The City of Barrie has released draft two of the city’s new Official Plan and invites written feedback until June 2.
“We have been consulting with our community since the fall of 2018 and we have built the new Official Plan on the feedback we’ve heard so far,” Andrea Miller, RPP, General Manager of Infrastructure and Growth Management said in a statement. “This new Official Plan is intended to direct new growth and development to areas served well by public transit and in a manner that can enhance our natural environment and built heritage and recognizes the transition to our existing neighbourhoods.”
Based on the feedback, the second draft includes proposed changes to the Settlement Area boundary, as well as phasing to accommodate for both people and job growth into 2051.
“We encourage residents to look at this next draft of the plan and share their comments—we want to ensure we get this right,” says Michelle Banfield, RPP, Director of Development Services.
“Look at your neighbourhood, your favorite city spaces, your transportation routes, and then look at the draft Official Plan and see if the policy structure matches your vision for our city.”
Next steps:
- Open House (virtual) May 19, 4 to 8 p.m.
City staff will present the draft new Official Plan to the public and give an opportunity to ask questions. There will be presentations at 4 p.m. and at 6 p.m., as well as Q & A sessions and opportunities for interactive public engagement. - Public Meeting (virtual) June 2 at 6 p.m.
The second draft of the new Official Plan will be presented to planning committee. Members of the public can make comments – register in advance by emailing cityclerks@barrie.ca or calling 705-739-4220 x5500 before June 2.
How to submit feedback:
- By email to barrieop@barrie.ca no later than June 2; include your name, contact information and full address.
- By mail to the Development Services Department, City of Barrie, City Hall, 70 Collier Street, P.O. Box 400, Barrie, ON, L4M 4T5.
After the public consultation is complete, staff will make any necessary updates to the document and prepare the new Official Plan for release in fall 2021.
By 2051, according to the province’s direction, Barrie’s population is expected to double to 298,000 people.
