I am a Registered…

I am a Registered Professional Planner practicing as a consultant for public sector and private sector clients in Ontario. I disagree with the proposal to limit municipalities' ability to require application materials related to sun/shadow studies, wind studies, urban design briefs, and lighting plans - especially as it relates to impacts on the public realm. These studies are crucial to ensuring that sidewalks, parks, pedestrian pathways and building entrances are usable, comfortable, and safe. Without these studies, there could be risks to public safety (e.g. wind tunnels that throw debris, or poorly lit areas that feel unsafe) and the usability of spaces that governments maintain for public use and benefit (e.g. playgrounds without sunshine, sidewalks that are too windy/cold to stroll along and window shop). Please reconsider allowing these studies insofar as they protect valuable public realm.