I understand that on July 11…

I understand that on July 11, 2022 the City of Guelph adopted Official Plan Amendment 80 updating the Official Plan modifying policies in order to revise density and intensification targets and associated land use designations in order conform with the Growth Plan for the Greater Golden Horseshoe area.
I appreciate the City’s desire to intensify as much as possible within its current existing boundary but the fact of the matter is clear, the Growth Plan’s intended population growth and demand for housing will not be satiated by simply over intensifying lands, expansion of the settlement boundary will be necessary to accommodate such growth.

It is my assertion that such growth and expansion of the settlement boundary should occur to lands in the area outside the boundary of Kortright Hills. The area in question is a prime example of a vibrant community in the City of Guelph surrounding by available lands for growth.

Understanding the City’s desire to maintain its prime agricultural lands it is my suggestion that growth should be directed to lands with Secondary Agricultural Designation. Having reviewed the area myself I note that there are portions of land that are underutilized for development. One such example is the old golf course located at 4748 Pioneer Trail Road. These lands are currently an eye sore, and are just one example of wasted lands. There are located near a number of desirable amenities for potential future residents such as hiking trails and parks as well as nearby schools. In addition they are located in close proximity to arterial roads, most obviously Highway 6.

According to the proposed OPA not only is it the intention of the proposed changes to increase the population of our City but also designate employment areas of note. The draft Schedule 1b to the proposed OPA notes Provincial Significant Employment Zone on lands located around Laird Road and Highway 6. The lands I have mentioned in question are located within 1 kilometer of the Provincially Significant Employment Zone lands.