Proposed amendments to South Huron’s zoning by-law were on the table at council’s last meeting on September 18th.
Senior Planner Craig Metzger said that there was one goal in mind with the changes.
The amendments would allow up to four units in low density areas like apartments over garages, or converting existing homes into apartments, and would also revise minimum density requirements to make more efficient use of municipal services, alongside allowing broader housing options for on-farm labour.
One thing the county also recommended was changes to parking requirements for additional rental units.
The amendments would also allow areas earmarked for development to be pre-zoned with more density, while also protecting abutting properties by ensuring that only low density development abuts existing low density properties, but allowing for mixed density to encourage low rise apartment buildings in the centre.
As a result of this report, South Huron Council voted to initiate a Housing Update to the South Huron Official Plan and Zoning By-Law – upon completion, staff will circulate the amendment for public review.
Written by: B. Shakyaver