This is a great idea. …

This is a great idea.

Development, is the Provincial Planning Statement is defined as the creation of a new lot.

New lots proposed within natural heritage systems have impacts on fragmentation resulting is pressure for additional homes, accessory structures and access. There could be pressure to remove trees or build next to wetlands and watercourses.

Similarly, new lots puts pressure on natural hazards. While the PPS prohibits them in floodplain areas, it only discourages lot creation in other hazards such as erosion hazards.

If this is approved it is recommended that now new lots be permitted:
- In any natural hazards (flooding, erosion, wetlands, dynamic beach).
- In or within 30 metres of wetlands or watercourses (similar to the Greenbelt)
- In or within 10 metres of a woodland or life science area of natural and scientific interest

The province should have standardized protections for natural heritage systems similar to the Greenbelt and Oak Ridges Moraine. This provides clear direction and protect the environment. The test of no negative impacts is too vague, result in delays and the need for complicated environmental studies. Choose setbacks and protections that protect the majority of species.

This will also put pressure to remove trees. In considering the green building standard consultation, perhaps new lots should be required to provide / maintain 30% tree canopy or contribute to a fund that the municipality could than plant trees.