van Amersfoort presented the plan to Huron County Council this week
Huron County Council got an inside track on Bayfield’s Secondary Plan on Tuesday, (December 6th).
Senior Planner Denise van Amersfoort presented the Official Plan Amendment, which aims to integrate the goals of development and change within the Bayfield settlement area.
Van Amersfoort explained that the Bayfield Secondary Plan was the first of its kind.
One of the key motivations for the plan was the absence of wastewater treatment capacity in Bayfield since 2015, creating a backlog in demand for development once the capacity issue is resolved.
The official plan amendment, approved by the Municipality of Bluewater in February, brings to fruition several notable changes, such as recognizing natural areas within Bayfield, revising policies for residential intensification, and addressing concerns about the expansion of highway commercial designations.
Although there were concerns about preserving the unique character of the village when expanding commercial availability, van Amersfoort said that they had been addressed.
Mayor Klopp expressed satisfaction at the community feedback that brought the plan to life.
Bluewater Mayor Paul Klopp expressed satisfaction with the public engagement process and modifications made based on community feedback.
Members of the public did come to council’s meeting in October to voice criticism regarding increased commercial zoning along the highway corridor, which van Amersfoort addressed in her discussion with County council.
After discussion, Council ultimately approved the amendment.
Written by: B. Shakyaver
