OFFICIAL PLAN REVIEW

WHAT IS THE OFFICIAL PLAN? The “OP” is Prince Edward County’s blueprint for the near and distant future. It contains policies that guide how, when and where physical change takes place in the County. The way land and buildings should be developed, used and serviced are determined by the OP. Also, because physical change affects social, economic and cultural aspects of community life, the OP ensures that these interrelationships are managed in ways that protect and enhance the qualities that make our County a special place.

WHY REVIEW THE OFFICIAL PLAN? The current OP is nearly 20 years old and much has changed since its adoption by County Council in 1993, including the amalgamation of ten local governments into a single tier municipality in 1998. While there have been various amendments over the years, many policies do not reflect existing conditions and challenges.

Also, the Province requires municipalities to review their official plans every five years to ensure that they are up to date and consistent with the Provincial Policy Statement (2005). The “PPS” includes policies that promote efficient development patterns, long term economic prosperity, the wise use of resources such as water, agriculture, natural heritage and cultural heritage, as well as policies that protect public health and safety in regard to natural hazards like flooding and human-made hazards like contaminated sites.

HOW WILL THE OFFICIAL PLAN BE REVIEWED?
The Official Plan Review began in January 2010 with the Secondary Plans project. This initiative involves the preparation of new plans for the County’s two largest settlements--Picton-Hallowell and Wellington. The project schedule and progress to date can be reviewed on the secondary plans webpage. Project completion is targeted for fall 2011.

The second phase of the Official Plan Review began in January 2011 with Council’s approval of a Work Plan and a Participation Plan for the comprehensive review and update of OP policies that apply across the County. This webpage is dedicated to the phase 2 review.

IT’S IMPORTANT THAT YOU GET INVOLVED!
The Official Plan is your plan, so participation in its renewal is critical if it is to serve you well in the years ahead.

HOW TO PARTICIPATE
Complete the survey located in the right sidebar. Follow the planning processes on FaceBook (Plan Picton-Hallowell and Plan Wellington) and Twitter (PECPlans).

Monitor the planning process online, through the local media, and from notices that will be posted in libraries, community centres, recreation facilities, and County buildings.

Attend upcoming open houses and public meetings where you can get answers, express concerns, and share ideas.

Review project reports and other materials hot off the press. Get them at the libraries, Shire Hall, and the Edward Building, and online from this webpage.