THUNDER BAY — Property-owners in unorganized townships near Thunder Bay are being invited to participate in a review of the official plan and zoning by-law that's designed to guide development over the next 20 years.
The controversial subject of gravel pits is likely to come under scrutiny as the Lakehead Rural Planning Board undertakes an update of the current planning documents for Gorham, Ware and Dawson Road Lots 1-20.
The existing official plan and zoning by-law have been in effect since 2013.
According to a notice issued by the rural planning board, the purpose of the review is to ensure the existing guidelines "continue to reflect the community's vision, goals and objectives for land use planning, and are up-to-date with provincial legislative and policy requirements."
It said topics of interest to property-owners may include the types and locations of housing, businesses and industry; the future of development; protection of provincial interests including nature, culture and heritage; short-term rentals; affordable housing; shoreline development; and other issues introduced by community members.
Under provincial legislation, municipalities and planning boards are mandated to conduct periodic reviews of planning regulations.
The first step toward updating the guidelines for Gorham, Ware and Dawson Road lots will take place next week at an open house at the Murillo Community Centre on Oliver Road.
David Welwood of Sudbury-based consulting firm J.L. Richards is assisting in the process.
"This is all very early on. The intent of the open house is really to get an idea of the public's interest in land-use planning. Because in addition to ensuring the official plan and zoning by-law are up to snuff in terms of provincial policy and regulations, its an opportunity to refine the public's goals for the development of their community," he said in an interview.
Welwood said one of the issues that typically receives attention when planning guidelines for rural areas are discussed is the development of recreational properties.
"Definitely, cottage lot development is common in our experience in unincorporated areas, so I suspect that will be one of the issues we hear about at the open house. I also know that aggregate development is a big, hot topic in Gorham and Ware, so I'm sure we'll hear lots about that as well."
The open house is scheduled for Wednesday, June 28 between 6 p.m. and 8 p.m. at the Murillo Community Centre at 4569 Oliver Road.
Members of the public may also email comments to the Lakehead Rural Planning Board: lrpb@tbaytel.net
