The Municipality of West Nipissing Ouest has initiated the process of updating its Official Plan and Zoning By-law. This project involves a thorough review and revision of the documents, in accordance with Provincial policy directives to ensure the responsible management of land use in the years ahead. The Official Plan and Zoning By-law address matters related to local land use such as housing, transportation, economic development, the natural environment, and agriculture.
As part of the process, the Municipality is committed to engaging with the public to ensure that the evolving needs of residents are considered. Residents are encouraged to participate in the public consultation period that will be in effect from now until December 2025. The project web page offers a number of ways to stay informed and get involved, including a comment form and the option to subscribe to project updates by email. In-person public consultations are set to take place in early 2025; dates will be announced. The project team looks forward to receiving public input. Visit westnipissing.ca/official-plan-and-zoning-by-law-update for details and resources.
Key objectives of the Official Plan and Zoning By-law update include:
- Ensuring alignment with provincial policies and interests to meet regulatory requirements.
- Reviewing and updating development policies based on current trends, future projections, and public input.
- Conducting a comprehensive review of municipal lands, facilities, and infrastructure to assess alignment with future growth.
- Creating a user-friendly, accessible, and transparent planning framework for all stakeholders.
Ontario’s Planning Act requires municipalities to review their Official Plan, and subsequently, their Zoning By-law within a 3-year window. This process ensures that municipal regulations as well as the vision for the community remain aligned with legislation, provincial plans and policies. Planscape Inc. consulting was retained in April 2024 to support the municipal Planning Department with this process.