Official Plan Review

The Municipality of Leamington is undertaking a review of its Official Plan – Shaping Tomorrow, Together. The Official Plan helps the Municipality make decisions on how and where the community should grow over the next 30 years. Since the current Official Plan was adopted in 2009, there have been a wide range of projects, investments and initiatives to contribute to the growth, quality of life, and efficiency of our community. This new plan is meant to build on the goals and policies outlined in the current Official Plan, while adapting to the changing needs of Leamington’s ever-evolving local context. We know the community is excited to see what’s next, and we are committed to working together to prepare for a promising future for residents to live, play, and work.

The Process

The Official Plan Review is commencing in accordance with the Municipal Act (2001) and will address consistency and conformity with the ‘in force’ Provincial Policy Statement (2020) and the proposed Provincial Planning Statement (2023), which is in the consultation phase of consideration. The review will also consider updates to the Planning Act (1990), updated growth projections, and the County of Essex Official Plan Review (underway).

The Official Plan Review will undertake the following stages:

• Issues and Opportunities Analysis, including public engagement opportunities, stakeholder consultation, and a municipal background report;
• Development of a Policy Directions report, including a review of current provincial policies;
• Draft Official Plan, including opportunities for community feedback and areas for improvement; and,
• Final Official Plan, including a statutory public meeting and presentation to Municipal Council.

This project is anticipated to be completed by Winter 2024-2025. Following the adoption of the new Official Plan, in accordance with Section 26 of the Planning Act, there will be a review of the Comprehensive Zoning By-law 890-09, as amended. This review is intended to align the Zoning By-law to the updated policies and land use designations through Leamington’s future Official Plan and to ensure it meets the ever-changing dynamics of our business communities and residential needs.

How You Can Get Involved

Over the review process, we are committed to creating opportunities for you to share your vision for the Municipality. Here are some ways you can get involved in the process:

1. Stay Informed - Let’s Talk Leamington is the best resource to stay informed so you don’t miss out on an important date or milestone. Subscribe to project updates and join the conversation.
2. Complete the Survey – Share your thoughts by completing our survey below. The survey will close at noon on Thursday, December 7, 2023. Should you need assistance to fill out the survey or would like to complete a hard copy, accommodations can be made through communications@leamington.ca.
3. Participate in Open Houses - We are holding a Public Open House to introduce the Official Plan Review and gather your feedback on your vision for Leamington, and opportunities and issues across the Municipality. We will also be sharing the Municipality’s goals and objectives for the Official Plan and provide a summary of what we have heard from you so far through the online survey. There will be a short presentation at the beginning of the Open House, followed by group discussions.

Date: Thursday, November 30, 2023

Time: 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM

Location: Nature Fresh Farms Recreation Centre, 249 Sherk Street, Leamington, ON

Join Online: (Weblink) https://us02web.zoom.us/j/88676866415 (Phone Number) +1 (647) 374-4685

For project updates, please refer to the news feed section below.