Bruce County Council was able to hear an update from staff regarding the Plan the Bruce portion of the County’s Official Plan.
The plan is now in Phase 2, where county staff will be reviewing the plan based on feedback already received.
They’re also looking at policies that affect housing, agriculture, the natural environment, and economic development.
Jack Van Dorp, the Manager of Land Use Planning, says that the plan is expected to increase connectivity and mobility.
“This [part of the project] also provides more specific policy directions that reflect [the county’s principles], including connectivity and mobility policies for enhance direction between communities… this includes complete streets, complete communities, enhanced connected parks, trails, and open spaces. So [we’re] really focusing on the human aspect and outcomes of better connectivity within the county and between communities.”
During the review, county staff will also be looking at the Growth Management Strategy, which provides more policy detail direction on managing growth and change.
“It also, importantly, establishes the population, employment, and household forecasts that were introduced through the Growth Management Official Plan amendment in the fall,” says Van Dorp.
Saugeen Shores Mayor Luke Charbonneau had some concerns about the county moving forward with the plan before the eight lower-tier municipalities were able to discuss the plan.
Director of Planning and Development, Claire Dodds, told the committee that “We, as staff, want to move this project along, but we are very respectful of council’s time, and of our municipal partners’ time. This is a timeline which is not set in stone, but is certainly the timeline we could deliver this project the soonest.”
The county is looking to hold ongoing engagement with local municipal staff and councils, as well as Indigenous communities, agencies, the Province, and the public.
While doing previous consultations, they’ve managed to hear from 15,000 residents through 60 different activities, including online surveys, and Facebook Live sessions.
Open houses are planned for July 2023.
For more information, check out planthebruce.ca