Neighbourhood Planning

The Neighbourhood Planning Committee of the Glebe Community Association (GCA) deals with questions of land-use planning, proposals for construction, and similar changes in the community.

Development approval process

Because our neighbourhood is old and most buildings were constructed prior to the introduction of zoning regulation, many changes to properties require applications for flexibility under the zoning by-law. These are known as variances and are considered by the city Committee of Adjustment.

Redevelopment of properties in the neighbourhood is also popular and frequently lots are divided into smaller parcels of land. To divide a lot is to seek consent for severance and applications for this also are considered by the Committee of Adjustment.

This description outlines the process for development approvals, including variances, severances, rezoning and other planning related matters.

Sometimes the Neighbourhood Planning Committee organizes meetings at which proponents of new projects meet with neighbours to outline their projects and respond to questions. The purpose of such meetings is to avoid misunderstanding and, when necessary, to provide an environment in which opposing views can be stated and compromises sought. From time to time the committee may recommend to the Board of the GCA that the Association adopt a position with respect to an application. If such a recommendation is approved the GCA might appear as a party before the Committee of Adjustment or before other regulatory bodies.

Recent Activities

In 2008, there have been very few applications to the city for rezoning, variances, and severances in the Glebe. The Planning committee has spent the bulk of their time monitoring city activities related to planning. Comments have been provided on issues such as changes to the Official Plan and Development in the Greenbelt.

For more information or to volunteer with the Planning committee, please send an e-mail to planning@glebeca.ca.