Official Plan Issue Briefs
The City of Waterloo Official Plan is a large, complicated document. To help focus on specific areas during the review, the project team has identified eight issues that are important considerations in the review process. We've summarized each of these issues on its own project page, including an overview of the issue, and a list of the existing conditions, strategic directions, and policy considerations for that issue. Further details on those conditions and considerations are available in the issue brief PDF documents, linked from the specific project pages and available in our Document library. Important Waterloo facts and trends which we also need to consider as we review the Official Plan are included in our Key Facts and Trends Infographic or our Key Facts and Trends Report.
Official Plan Review Issue Briefs
- City Growth, Structure and Form A particular hierarchy and urban structure are the main building blocks of the city.
- Economic Development and Innovation Promoting economic development by planning for the conditions to make the city an attractive place in which to live and invest.
- Environment and Climate Change Forward thinking environment and climate change policies are required for the continued adaptation and transformational change needed to address this issue.
- Housing Affordability and Equity Addressing the need for a diversity of housing types, tenures (financial arrangements for living, such as tenant or owner-occupied) and costs throughout the city.
- Neighbourhoods, Communities and Culture Arts, culture and heritage play a critical role in the vibrancy and vitality of Waterloo, and cultural activities and sites contribute to the well-being of society and individuals.
- Planning Processes and Public Consultation Our engagement policies and methods need to meet the requirements and accessibility needs of the legislation and our community.
- Transportation and Mobility Proper infrastructure accommodating various transportation modes and amenities is one of the best ways to allow better connections between people and the places they need to go.
- Vision and Strategic Plan Principles, goals and objectives established by the community, which describe and coordinate how land in the city should be used and developed.
If you have Questions or Comments while reviewing these materials, our project team would love to hear from you.
