Province sets growth plan targets for regions

The provincial growth plan, Places to Grow, sets targets for population and employment forecasts, as well as intensification and minimum densities of development for cities and towns across the Greater Golden Horseshoe. The Places to Grow Act, 2005 requires the Region of Peel's Official Plan to conform to the growth plan by June 2009.

The plan, which stipulates municipalities increase intensification and investment in public services within existing built-up areas, aims to reduce residents' dependence on automobiles. By developing mixed-use, transit-supportive and pedestrian friendly urban growth centres, which include

downtown Brampton and Mississauga City Centre, the provincial government is providing a growth management policy that will support a modern, well-maintained infrastructure built in accordance with a broad plan for growth in association with municipal official plans.

"Peel will continue to grow as people choose to settle

in areas that offer high quality of life," said Richard Paterak, regional councillor and planning committee chair. "To help reach the provincial targets set out in the plan to accommodate future growth, the Region will partner with the area municipalities to conduct Peel-specific research to assist developing strategies and policies necessary to achieve the goals set out in the province's growth plan."

Specifically, the growth plan requires urban growth centres achieve a minimum gross density target of 200 residents and jobs combined per hectare by 2031 or earlier. By directing growth to the built-up areas of communities through intensification, cities and towns are encouraged to develop vibrant communities with a diverse mix of land use, employment and housing types.

Designated greenfield areas, undeveloped land designated within the Regional Official Plan's urban boundary, are required to have a minimum density of 50 residents and jobs per hectare, and natural features and areas are being excluded when calculating the density.

By 2015, the growth plan calls for 40% of new residential development be within existing built-up areas, and that municipalities develop and implement policies on water conservation, energy conservation, air quality protection and integrated waste management.

"Places to Grow reflects provincial leadership in planning and growth management on an inter-regional scale," said Nick Tunnacliffe, Peel planning commissioner. "To fully implement the vision, the province must still fully commit to investing in key public transportation initiatives that directly support the growth plan."

For more information on Places to Grow, visit www.pir.gov.on.ca.