Final comments due for site plan control bylaw

Jeff Helsdon, Editor

The end is almost in sight for Tillsonburg’s new site plan control bylaw.

Site plan control is a planning tool used to manage development with the community. It allows for a detailed review of parking, lighting, landscaping, drainage and other details on a particular site.

The town’s site plan control bylaw was last updated in 2017. The new draft bylaw, for which an open house was held to share the updates with the public on March 10, contains changes to reflect provincial legislation impacts and general updates.

“It’s more of an administrative task,” said Oxford County development planner Amy Hartley. “We’re not look to make waves with the changes.”

Amongst the changes are: site plan control does not apply to residential developments of 10 units or less, third party appeal rates were removed, and the ability to request aesthetic changes has been removed. Hartley said the updates will also cut red tape, and reduce redundant wording that could confuse applicants.

The open house held on March 10 drew about 10 people to the Lion’s Den, including engineers, planners, land surveyors and residents. Hartley was glad to see the number who came out to better understand the site plan control process.

Previously, she made presentation at the economic development committee and the builder’s forum.

Final comments on the proposed bylaw are due March 20, and a final report will be presented to Tillsonburg council on April 13.