The City of Courtenay is looking for feedback for the Arden Corridor Local Area Plan (LAP) process, which is in its final stages.
A public hearing is slated for Dec. 2 at 5 p.m. in Courtenay council chambers.
Council passed second reading of the Arden LAP bylaw last Monday. If approved, the plan would be incorporated into the City’s Official Community Plan, possibly by the end of December. The plan is designed to provide guidance on land use in the area over time and to help shape future growth on the western boundary of the city.
The boundaries include both sides of Arden Road from the Comox Valley Parkway to approximately Bood Road.
The process began about 18 months ago in response to development interest in the area. The Comox Valley Regional Growth Strategy shows the area’s potential for future annexation into the City from Areas A and C.
A comprehensive consultation approach invited the public to attend a series of meetings and workshops in 2012. Citizens from the local area and beyond were also invited to complete a questionnaire. More than 150 participants shared their views.
“This local area plan was initiated in part at the request of the community. Staff and council have been very sensitive to the ownership and pride that the residents in the area have for their neighbourhood,” said Nancy Hofer, the City’s environmental planner. “We aimed to provide multiple points of feedback.”
The Arden LAP incorporates a new user-friendly format, with numerous illustrations to help communicate abstract policy concepts.
“It’s a highly visual and informative document, and the intent is for residents to use the plan and steward it over time,” Hofer said. “We know that in order for such plans to be effective, the community must be able to take ownership of them.”
For more information, visit www.courtenay.ca. Residents are also welcome to provide comments in writing prior to the public hearing.
— City of Courtenay