Item - 2015.PG6.3

This report presents the revised recommended policies for the Healthy Neighbourhoods, Neighbourhoods and Apartment Neighbourhoods sections of the Official Plan. The proposed policy changes are the result of extensive consultations with various stakeholders which included community associations, the general public, the development industry and City divisions and agencies, all which have helped to further refine the proposed policies to provide enhanced clarity and direction.

The proposed Official Plan amendment appended to this report as Attachment 1 incorporates specific changes to clarify, strengthen and refine the existing policies as they apply to residential lands. Attachment 2 illustrates how the Official Plan would read if the amendments proposed in Attachment 1 were adopted. These changes support the Official Plan's goals to protect and enhance existing neighbourhoods and allow limited infill on underutilised apartment sites within Neighbourhoods and Apartment Neighbourhoods.

The proposed Official Plan Amendment implements the City's Tower Renewal Program by promoting the renewal and retrofitting of older residential apartment buildings.  The revised policies encourage small scale retail, institutional uses and community facilities at grade in apartment buildings to better serve area residents, particularly on sites that are not within walking distance of such facilities. Community gardens are also encouraged on apartment sites that are distant from shopping facilities offering fresh produce.

On June 16, 2015, the statutory Open House to consider the proposed policies was held pursuant to Section 26 of the Planning Act, and in accordance with Council direction at its May 5, 6 and 7, 2015 meeting. This report and the proposed Official Plan Amendment, to be tabled at the Committee's September 16, 2015 meeting, will be brought back for consideration at a statutory Public Meeting of the Planning and Growth Management Committee meeting on November 16, 2015.