Please accept our attached…

Please accept our attached full submission from the Ontario Home Builders’ Association to the government’s request for feedback on the proposed “Provincial Planning Statement” (ERO 019-8462) which is being submitted on behalf of the local associations of OHBA.

The OHBA is encouraged by the proposals that have been put forth to update how Ontario plans for growth. We support the policy direction of the new Provincial Planning Statement (PPS) and the rescinding of A Growth Plan for the Greater Golden Horseshoe (Growth Plan), to recognize and accept that all of Ontario is truly ‘a place to grow’.

The OHBA provided significant comments and robust feedback during the summer of 2023, following the initial introduction of the new Provincial Planning Statement for consultation (ERO 019-6813). OHBA and its members were pleased to see that the introduction of the modified PPS 2024 maintained much of the language first introduced in 2023.

Along the same vein of the OHBA submission on Bill 185, where the themes of stability, consistency, affordability, and predictability, combined with proper transition provisions has been highlighted, the same applies for the Provincial Planning Statement. Municipalities will require guidance and direction regarding the proper interpretation and implementation of a significant number of the policy changes being put forward through the new PPS. The government is strongly encouraged to revisit the complimentary Implementation Document that accompanied the new PPS 2023 and ensure that proper transition provisions and guidance is prepared and provided to both public and private sector stakeholders alike to ensure a smooth and seamless incorporation of the new streamlined and comprehensive Provincial Planning Statement.

OHBA commends the government on its continuous work and efforts to reduce policy duplicity, streamline processes, and recognize that all of Ontario is ‘a place to grow’. Finally, we would urge the Ministry to move quickly towards the adoption and approval of the new Provincial Planning Statement – ideally during the Summer of 2024.