What is a neighbourhood plan?
A neighbourhood plan sets a long-term vision for how a specific area of the city should grow and change. It works alongside the City of Wrenford Official Plan to guide where new homes, businesses, parks, and trails will go. These plans help ensure that development matches the needs of the people who live and work there.
How plans fit into our city
Under the Planning Act, the Official Plan provides the overall direction for the city. Neighbourhood plans, often called area structure plans or secondary plans, dive deeper into a particular area. They turn broad goals into clear rules for land use, building sizes, and infrastructure upgrades. Once council approves a neighbourhood plan, it becomes official policy. This does not change existing zoning, but it guides future decisions when developers or the city propose changes.
Current neighbourhood plans
The city is actively developing plans for several growing areas. These plans were shaped by years of feedback from residents, local businesses, and community groups.
- Wildrye Area Structure Plan — Guides the newest residential neighbourhood in the south-east, focusing on trails, stormwater management, and community amenities.
- Eastfield Expansion Area Structure Plan — Plans the transition from residential to industrial district and outlines the new arterial road network.
- Ambrel Lake Corridor Area Structure Plan — Focuses on mixed-use development along commercial corridors and shoreline protection around Ambrel Lake.
Find detailed maps, meeting minutes, and draft documents on the Area structure plans page.
How a plan is created
Creating a neighbourhood plan takes two to three years and follows a clear process. Staff work with residents, business owners, and neighbouring areas to build a shared vision. The typical steps include:
- Concept stage: Staff review existing conditions and draft a preliminary vision.
- Public engagement: Residents share ideas through online surveys, workshops, and public meetings. Community engagement pages show upcoming opportunities.
- Draft plan: Staff refine the vision into policy maps and written rules.
- Council review: Council considers the draft plan, holds a public hearing, and votes on approval.
How you can get involved
Your input shapes these plans. You can participate by attending public meetings, joining a community working group, or submitting written feedback. If you have a development proposal in a planned area, the neighbourhood plan will be a key reference for staff reviewing your planning applications.
Contact
For questions about a specific neighbourhood plan or to request a copy of a draft document, email the planning team at [email protected].