The survey to evaluate development proposals in Huntsville has been extended until Friday, Nov 29.
The survey opened on Oct. 24 and aims to gather feedback for the town to understand what views residents value the most in the area.
Town officials say this information will help them determine suitable locations for development without affecting the town’s natural environment.
According to officials, the town is facing housing challenges and, with the community feedback gathered, will take steps to implement its Strategic Plan priority of “balanced growth” through a responsible and cautious approach.
Councillor Bob Stone, Chair of the Planning Council, says it is important Huntsville balances the need for affordable housing and growth with the preservation of the town’s natural landscape.
“A key element in strategic planning for growth is to preserve character by maintaining ‘Significant Views’ so that we can consider height and density in appropriate locations,” says Stone.
According to the Height and Density Background Review and Directions Report presented to council in April, the maximum permitted height for apartment buildings is 11m, and the maximum permitted density is 60 units per hectare.
Richard Clark, Manager of Planning, says knowing what views people value is going to help them create a map and make decisions on where development should go.
“Having this information is going to be really key to us. We’re facing a housing challenge here in Huntsville. We know that we’re getting a lot of development interest in Huntsville and that we’re a growing community, and we’re, quite frankly, getting a lot of applications which are asking for additional height or additional density,” says Clark.
Officials say a public meeting will be held to discuss the survey results and proposed guidelines, which will then be presented to council for final consideration.
Height and density standards are contained within the Community Planning Permit Bylaw (CPPBL).
