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TOWN OF CRESTON
Consolidated to
November 18, 2025
BYLAW NO. 1854
A bylaw to adopt an Official Community Plan for the Town of Creston.
WHEREAS the Local Government Act and the Community Charter allows Council, by Bylaw, to
adopt an Official Community Plan;
WHEREAS the text of an Official Community Plan must be referenced as a "Schedule" and
must designate the area covered by the Official Community Plan;
WHEREAS the Council of the Town of Creston, with input from the community, has prepared an
Official Community Plan;
WHEREAS the Council of the Town of Creston has considered the Official Community Plan in
conjunction with the Five Year Financial Plan, Regional District of Central Kootenay's Waste
Management Plan and comments from the Land Reserve Commission.
NOW THEREFORE, the Council of the Town of Creston, in open meeting assembled, enacts as
follows:
Part 1 Citation
1.1
This bylaw may be cited as "Official Community Plan Bylaw No. 1854, 2017".
Part 2 Severability
2.1
If a portion of this bylaw is held invalid by a Court of competent jurisdiction, then the
invalid portion must be severed and the remainder of this bylaw is deemed to have
been adopted without the severed section, subsection, paragraph, subparagraph,
clause or phrase.
Part 3 Previous Bylaw Repeal
3.1
Town of Creston Bylaw No. 1532, cited as "Official Community Plan Bylaw No. 1532,
2001" and all amendments thereto, are hereby repealed.
Part 4 Official Community Plan
4.1
The document entitled "Town of Creston 'Freshly Picked Future' Official Community
Plan", a copy of which is attached hereto and forms part of this Bylaw, is hereby
designated as the Official Community Plan of the Town of Creston.
Consolidated Bylaw No. 1854
Page 2 of 2
READ A FIRST TIME by title and SECOND TIME by content this 18th day of April, 2017.
PUBLIC HEARING was held this 30th day of May, 2017.
READ A THIRD TIME by title this 30th day of May, 2017.
ADOPTED this 30th day of May, 2017.
"Ron Toyota"
_____________"Bev Caldwell"________
Mayor Ron Toyota
Bev Caldwell, Executive Assistant
TOWN OF CRESTON
OFFICIAL COMMUNITY PLAN
ADOPTED: MAY 30th 2017
CONSOLIDATED: NOV. 18th 2025
2
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
Territory Acknowledgement
The Town of Creston recognizes, acknowledges and respects that this Official Community Plan (OCP) area
is located within the traditional territory of the Lower Kootenay Band and the Yaqan Nukiy people. The Lower
Kootenay Band is traditionally known as Yaqan Nukiy, literally meaning, "where the rock stands," in the
Ktunaxa language. The Lower Kootenay Band Community is one of four Canadian and two USA bands which
make up the Ktunaxa Nation. The Town of Creston and the Lower Kootenay Band benefit from a positive
working relationship and value the deepening connections between our communities. The Memorandum
of Understanding and Friendship that guides our community relations is as relevant today as when it was
first signed in 2009. The Town of Creston remains dedicated to the shared pursuits of reconciliation and
collaborative efforts that benefit the Yaqan Nukiy people, residents of the surrounding rural areas and citizens
of our municipality. This commitment has helped to shape this OCP.
Note - This Plan is without prejudice to and cannot be used to define and/or limit Aboriginal and Treaty Rights and
Aboriginal Title of First Nations in British Columbia. The OCP has no jurisdiction over Indian Reserves or Treaty
Settlement Lands.
Town of Creston and Lower Kootenay Band joint Council Inaugural Meeting, December 1, 2014
3
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
The OCP Review Process
The Official Community Plan Review is, by law, the formal responsibility of the Council of the Town of Creston.
Moving beyond mere legislative compliance, Council has endeavoured for a community engagement process
that resonates with our citizenry and a resulting Official Community Plan that represents a collective and
inspired vision for the future of Creston. Council's insight, support and cooperation has been instrumental in
the design and exercise of this unique planning endeavour.
Mayor Ron Toyota
and Councillors
Kevin Boehmer
Jen Comer
Jim Elford
Karen Unruh
Joanna Wilson
Joe Snopek (1941- 2016) - with special gratitude for the many years of community service.
The Town of Creston's Council wishes to recognize the contributions made by the countless community
members who actively participated in the OCP (Freshly Picked Future) process, ensuring that this Plan
captures the community's aspirations for the Town of Creston.
Additionally, this Official Community Plan could not have been completed without the contributions and input
from the following participants:
- The Lower Kootenay Band with whom the Town of Creston has a Memorandum of Understanding &
Friendship;
- Regional District of Central Kootenay (RDCK) Electoral Area Directors (Dir. Jackman, Dir. Wall and Dir.
Binks) and RDCK staff (Sangita Sudan and Meeri Durand);
- The Official Community Plan Advisory Committee (Tammy Bradford, Councillor Jim Elford, Randy
Fediuk, Justine Keirn, Matthew Maddess, Signe Miller, Jill Phelps, Rita Scott, Councillor Karen Unruh,
Kerri Wall, Barb Georgina West, Jesse Willicome, Miranda Wolfe, and Ron World);
- Kootenay Employment Services (Hugh Grant, Laura Francis, Marsha Neufeld, Warren Bruns, and KC
Dyer) in service to the Town of Creston;
- Alison Mewett and Will Marsh in service to the Town of Creston;
- Harry Harker, Ellen Pond, Paul DeGreef, and Duncan Cavens in service to the Town of Creston;
- Lui Carvello (Carvello Law Corporation) in service to the Town of Creston;
- Joel Comer (Skimmerhorn Consulting) in service to the Town of Creston;
- Jacky Smith, in service to the Town of Creston; and,
- Town of Creston staff (Helene Miles, Community Policy & Research Coordinator; Colin Farynowski,
Manager of Engineering; Ross Beddoes, Director of Municipal Services; and Lou Varela, Town Manager).
All contributors are to be commended for their contributions on the development of an ambitious vision for
the community's future.
4
TABLE OF CONTENTS
OCP - FRESHLY PICKED FUTURE
I.
Purpose & Vision........................................................................... 6
II.
How to Use This Plan..................................................................... 8
III.
Community Engagement & Creston Experience Principles...................10
IV.
Community Context....................................................................... 18
V.
Land Use Policies..........................................................................25
A. Management of Residential Growth..................................................................27
B. Residential ........................................................................................................30
C. Commercial ......................................................................................................34
D. Industrial ...........................................................................................................36
E. Institutional .......................................................................................................37
F. Recreational Parks & Open Space ...................................................................38
G. Development & the Natural Environment..........................................................40
H. Infrastructure.....................................................................................................42
VI. Development Permit Areas............................................................ 46
VII. Energy & Greenhouse Gas Emissions...............................................75
VIII. Community Goals & Policies...........................................................83
A. Quality of Life & Inclusive Local Identity ...........................................................85
B. Neighbourhoods & Housing ..............................................................................88
C. Connectivity.......................................................................................................91
D. Economic Prosperity.........................................................................................93
E. Downtown Vibrancy...........................................................................................98
F. Valley Collaboration ........................................................................................101
5
IX. Future Harvests (Implementation)................................................. 103
X.
Schedules - Maps.........................................................................110
- Schedule A: Land Use Designations............................................................... ..111
- Schedule B: Development Permit Areas 1 & 2................................................ ..112
- Schedule C: Development Permit Areas 3 - 8................................................. ..113
- Map 1: Residential Growth Containment Area (RGCA).................................. ..114
- Map 2: RGCA Development Factors,Hazards & Constraints.......................... ..115
- Map 3: Existing Water Service Infrastructure.................................................. ..116
- Map 4: Well Water Protection.......................................................................... ..117
- Map 5: Existing Sanitary Infrastructure........................................................... ..118
- Map 6: Existing Stormwater Infrastructure...................................................... ..119
- Map 7: Existing Sidewalks and Trails................................................................120
- Map 8: Major Street Network............................................................................121
- Map 9: Public Utilities, Facilities, and Open Space...........................................122
XI. Appendices..................................................................................123
- Appendix A: Glossary of Terms.........................................................................125
- Appendix B: Background Document & Reference List......................................135
- Appendix C: Market Park Conceptual Design...................................................137
- Appendix D: Residential Typologies .................................................................141
- Appendix E: Sidewalks, Street Trees & Street Furniture Typologies.................142
- Appendix F: On-Site Stormwater Management Information Sheets.................143
Note - Unless otherwise indicated, photographs in this Plan are used for reference or illustration purposes only
and can be added to or changed from time to time without requiring an Official Community Plan Amendment.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
I. PURPOSE
& VISION
7
Creston has a vision...
Creston is made up of walkable and connected
neighbourhoods, including a pedestrian-friendly
Downtown Core that acts as a social and economic
hub. The community features quality and diverse
housing options that are affordable, accessible
and that allow for multi-generational living and
aging in place. A comprehensive trail system runs
through the community and connects important
institutions and parks. The community trail system
also connects to a regional system that extends
throughout the Creston Valley. The economic
industries of forestry, agriculture and local retail
are expanded on by value-added industries, agri-
tourism and outdoor recreation. The preservation
of the natural environment, the celebration of the
social and cultural realms and the form of the built
environment all allow for a sense of place that
emphasizes the area's history, landscape, beauty
and sense of forward thinking.
Purpose
This Official Community Plan (OCP) is intended
to provide a framework to guide growth and
development in Creston towards the community's
vision for the future. The Plan offers policy direction
on: land use; housing; circulation and mobility;
infrastructure and servicing; Connectivity and green
space; and, to some extent, social and economic
development. The Plan also offers direction on
how to implement the policies it contains; setting
out specific steps the Town of Creston can take to
implement the OCP in the short term and the longer
term.
OCP - FRESHLY PICKED FUTURE
I. PURPOSE & VISION
II. HOW TO
USE THIS
PLAN
9
OCP - FRESHLY PICKED FUTURE
II. HOW TO USE THIS PLAN
How to Use this Plan
After a robust community engagement process
(detailed in the following Section III of this Plan), the
Town of Creston set to work developing this Official
Community Plan (OCP). This Plan is seen as a
tool for the local government, residents, developers,
and those who may be considering making Creston
their new home! The Plan is formatted with the
following sections:
1.
Creston has a vision; see page 7 of this
Plan. It is our intention that this Plan has lasting
legacies and we hope it resonates with the reader.
2.
Creston Experience Principles reflect the
community values that were consistently expressed
by residents throughout the community engagement
process, detailed on page 17 of this Plan. These
Creston Experience Principles were the foundation
upon which the Land Use Policies were developed.
3.
Land Use Policies, detailed on pages 25 -
42 of this Plan, reflect the community's preferred
approach to the management of growth and
development.
4.
Eight Development Permit Areas (DPAs)
with associated guidelines (Section VI of this Plan)
have been established to provide assurances to the
community about the way in which development will
occur. DPAs also provide certainty to stakeholders
about requirements for development in defined
areas of the community.
5.
Section
VII
Energy
and
Greenhouse
Gas Emissions (pg. 75 of this plan) details the
commitments of the Town of Creston in taking steps
to conserve energy and reduce greenhouse gas
emissions.
6.
Community Goals and Policies are a
step beyond the typical approach of an OCP, as
being purely a land use document, in which the
community's aspirations are detailed on pages 81 -
100 of this Plan.
7.
Future Harvests (pages 103 - 109 of this
Plan) details the steps that the Town of Creston
can take to making their goals a reality. This
Section includes community enhancement projects,
municipal homework, developer homework, new
Town Hall approaches to the management of growth
and development, and regulatory updates that will
be required for consistency with this OCP.
8.
Maps, Section X of this Plan, are numerous
and work in tandem with policies and objectives
found throughout the OCP.
9.
Appendices, Section XI of this Plan, are
supporting pieces of information, including but not
limited to: definitions, typologies, etc.
Read on......
III. COMMUNITY
ENGAGEMENT & CRESTON
EXPERIENCE PRINCIPLES
11
Elementary &
High School Students
247
70
Walkability
Checklists
135
Walkers
6
Community Events
2200+
Event Visitors
174
One-on-one
Interviews
137,000+
Estimated Minutes of
Direct Community Input
(The equivalent of 84
days around the clock!)
1278
Estimated Number of
Direct Contributors
6
Age of Youngest
Participant
100+
Age of Oldest
Participant
(He wouldn't tell!)
Thank you for
taking part in the
Official Community
Plan Review!
24
Kitchen Table Talks
262
Kitchen Table
Talk Participants
3 Special Stakeholder Sessions
105+ Participants
14
Community
Advisory Members
22
Hours of
Advisory Meetings
32
Challenge Questions
261
Challenge Participants
3533
Challenge Responses
995
Extra Comments
64
Facebook Posts
50,654
Post Views
64%
Increase In
Page Likes
CHALLENGE COMPLETE:
(This is what "Growing Together" looks like.)
85+
Participants
954
Pieces of
feedback on
the draft OCP
Open House
OCP - FRESHLY PICKED FUTURE
III. COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT
12
OCP - FRESHLY PICKED FUTURE
Process
The Town of Creston maintains a commitment
to deep and meaningful community engagement
in municipal affairs. The process to create this
Plan was driven by community members through
an intensive three-month engagement process.
Innovative tools were used to gather detailed input
from nearly 1,300 Creston Valley residents. The
Plan was also informed by past community planning
processes and professional assessments of the
future needs of the community.
An OCP Advisory Committee (OCPAC), comprised
of 14 community volunteers, worked together for
more than a year, overseeing the OCP process from
start to finish. This dedicated team of individuals
played an integral role in reaching out to the
community. As active ambassadors for the process,
they engaged their own networks and attended
OCP events to connect with the community at large.
The group also brought a critical lens to ensuring
that the Plan is in line with the public interest. This
document reflects the community's vision for the
future thanks, in large part, to the OCPAC.
Freshly Picked
Future:
A creative process with
local roots, that will bear
local fruit
The Town of Creston embarked on the 2016-2017
OCP review with a commitment to develop a "Made
in Creston" OCP. To help accomplish this goal, the
Town engaged a local non-profit organization to lead
community engagement. Kootenay Employment
Services applied their expertise in participatory
community planning to develop a strategy for broad,
deep and meaningful community engagement.
The strategy was also designed to actively build
community and gather information to support other
local community development players, including
neighbouring jurisdictions.
The Engagement Process: Digging deep.
Planting seeds.
This was easily the largest community engagement
process in the Town of Creston's history. The public's
response to the invitation to help plan for Creston's
future far surpassed the Town's expectations. The
average person spent 107 minutes providing direct
community input! Participants were as young as
six, and the oldest participant was over 100. Many
people took advantage of multiple opportunities to
have their say.
Council to Council: As the first step in the OCP
community engagement process, the Mayor and
Town Councillors reached out to the Chief and
Council of the Lower Kootenay Band. Chief Jason
Louie, Mayor Ron Toyota, Councillors and staff
from both communities shared a meal and evening
of conversation at the LKB Round House. Mayor
Toyota expressed his Council's interest in reaffirming
the existing Memorandum of Understanding and
Friendship that was signed between the Councils in
2009, with the new members of Council. This was
an opportunity to ensure that the Plan itself and the
community engagement process respected Yaqan
Nukiy culture and heritage.
All ages contributing to the vision for Creston's future at
the Creston Valley Family Place
III. COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT
13
OCP - FRESHLY PICKED FUTURE
Kitchen Table Talk at Crestview Village
People of all ages visited us at the Spring Trade Show!
Kitchen Table Talks: 262 adults took part in 24
OCP Kitchen Table Talks. This process allowed
community members to sit down in small groups
and go through a series of guided activities to share
personal reflection and conversation about what
they would like to see come next for the Town of
Creston. Sessions lasted (on average) between
1½ and 2 hours and took place at local businesses
and in meeting spaces of community organizations.
Conversations explored what the themes of livability,
prosperity, connectivity and resiliency meant in the
context of our community.
Community Events: There was an OCP presence
at six community events held between April and
June 2016. During these events: 174 one-on-one
interviews were conducted by KES staff, Town staff,
Councillors and OCPAC members; local children
drew dozens of images and shared their input for
the Plan; and, at least one thousand community
members received information about the OCP
Review.
Local Political Leaders: As the Kitchen Table
Talk process wrapped up, the Town hosted a
session for the local political leaders including
the Mayor, Town Manager, Regional District of
Central Kootenay (RDCK) planning staff, all local
RDCK Area Directors, and Lower Kootenay Band
Chief Operating Officer. The emerging themes
from the community engagement process were
discussed and participants affirmed a commitment
to approaching Connectivity, economic prosperity,
growth and development from a regional perspective.
Kitchen Table Talk with the Mayor, Town Manager,
Lower Kootenay Band Director of Operations, RDCK
planning staff and local RDCK Electoral Area Directors
III. COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT
14
OCP - FRESHLY PICKED FUTURE
OCP in Our Schools: 247 elementary and
secondary school students took part in OCP
activities that were developed with support from the
Society of Children and Youth of BC. Signed letters
from Mayor and Council to participating students
recognized that input from this segment of our
population, while sure to be different than that of
adults, was just as valuable to the resulting Plan.
Walkability Checklists: Ensuring that people of all
ages and abilities can walk easily and safely in the
Town of Creston is an important local goal. Our OCP
Walkability Checklist allowed residents to share their
experiences about getting around the community
on foot. 135 walkers, including elementary school
classes, participated in this activity and offered
feedback on needed improvements and potential
enhancements to the pedestrian experience.
Drawing Creston in 2030 at the Wildflower School
Prince Charles Secondary School students describing
how they would like Creston to be in 2030
III. COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT
15
OCP - FRESHLY PICKED FUTURE
One Resident's OCP
Challenge Experience:
"I took the OCP Challenge with three
girlfriends," says participant, Betty
Falck. "We did it on foot over two days
and probably spent about 7 hours.
I wanted to share my input for my
children's sake. They want to come
back to Creston, so I do what I can to
help see that this becomes a better
place to raise a family. The experience
was amazing. It was obvious how
much thought had gone into getting
the community in touch with local
issues. I found myself waking up at
night thinking about the questions.
This whole thing has given me food
for thought about what I can do to get
more involved. It has also made me
curious about what other people want
to see."
OCP Challenge: Creston's OCP Challenge was
an experiment in community planning and in rural
placemaking. The process used a mobile app,
a website, and paper scavenger hunt maps to
get citizens exploring community issues and the
community itself. They were directed to locations
around Creston where OCP Challenge Stations
invited targeted feedback on municipal issues
ranging from housing affordability to development
standards. More than 250 people aged 14 to 80 took
part in the Challenge. Their participation generated
3533 responses to the Challenge questions and
almost 1000 other ideas for Creston's future.
OCP Open House: At least 85 people turned out
to the Town's first OCP Open House to review the
Draft Plan. The event showcased the Draft Plan, as
well as the community input that guided the Plan's
direction. Participants had the chance to talk with the
Mayor, Councillors, Town staff, OCPAC volunteers,
and the Kootenay Employment Services community
engagement team. Open House participants were
also able to share written feedback and participate
in a "red light," "yellow light," green light" activity to
rank their support for proposed policy and action
items. The response was overwhelmingly positive
and helped to refine this Plan.
III. COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT
16
OCP - FRESHLY PICKED FUTURE
Community Goals
The following aspirations represent six Community Goals that emerged strongly from the OCP community
engagement process:
1. VALLEY COLLABORATION - In the Creston Valley, change and development are driven by
communication, cooperation, and collaboration among individuals, community groups, businesses
and local governments.
2. QUALITY OF LIFE & INCLUSIVE LOCAL IDENTITY - Creston fosters a unique sense of place
and quality of life that allows all people to thrive, and reflects an authentic, vibrant and inclusive local
identity.
3. NEIGHBOURHOODS & HOUSING - Creston's residents have access to diverse housing options
in neighbourhoods designed to promote social inclusion, walkability and connection with the community
as a whole.
4. CONNECTIVITY - Creston is a connected and walkable community where there are opportunities
for many types of transportation, recreation and leisure activities.
5. ECONOMIC PROSPERITY - Creston has a thriving economy that fosters local entrepreneurship
and job creation, and that meets community needs through effective, efficient and creative use of our
diverse resources and assets.
6. DOWNTOWN VIBRANCY - Creston continues to enhance its downtown as a vibrant, inclusive
and memorable small town centre that is the social and economic hub of the Creston Valley.
III. COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT
Community members participating in the OCP Challenge
17
Creston Experience Principles
The OCP community engagement process revealed
strong consensus about the types of basic values
that matter most to this community. These values,
as they were expressed by residents, were used
to develop a set of overarching land use principles
to help inform local land use management. Each
of the six Creston Experience Principles sets out a
guiding value followed by its decision-making and
land use implications.
1. Place-based: Rooted in local context
- We value authenticity and seek to preserve
and enhance the character of our community,
the natural environment we live in, and the
rural quality of life that we cherish.
- Decision-making should reflect our distinct
past, present, and potential, including all our
assets and limitations.
- Land use should contribute to cultivating
a richer and more unique Creston Valley
experience.
2. Principled: Driven by local values
- We value optimism and sound judgment and
seek to set new and higher standards for what
is possible in Creston.
- Decision-making should welcome change
and development without compromising what
matters most to our community.
- Land use should honour local aspirations.
3. Pragmatic: Informed, sensible, and
effective
- We value resourcefulness and seek not
only to make the most of opportunities and
challenges as they arise, but also to become
more proactive in shaping our own future.
- Decision-making should be realistic about
what can be achieved and inventive in
exploring
alternative
routes
to
desired
outcomes.
- Land use should maximize community benefit
over the longer term.
4. Balanced: Geared towards sustainability
- We value stability and diversity and seek
to create conditions that will allow local
individuals, families, groups, enterprises,
industries, and ecosystems to thrive.
- Decision-making should weigh both the short
and long-term implications of change and
development on the community as a whole.
- Land use should be well-integrated and make
our community more livable, prosperous,
connected, and resilient.
5. Inclusive: Designed to benefit all
- We value one another and seek to foster
genuine wellbeing and happiness for all.
- Decision-making
should
be
guided
by
commitments to equity and transparency.
- Land use should strengthen the social fabric
of our community, meeting the needs of all
people and inviting residents and visitors to
engage wholeheartedly in community life.
6. Collaborative: Carried out in a spirit of
joint responsibility
- We value cooperation and seek to realize our
local Brand: "Growing Together".
- Decision-making should consider how public,
private, community, and other partners can
best benefit from, and contribute to, local
change and development.
- Land use should be managed in ways that
encourage collective stewardship of our
resources and shared investment in our
future.
OCP - FRESHLY PICKED FUTURE
III. COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT
IV. COMMUNITY
CONTEXT
19
OCP - FRESHLY PICKED FUTURE
IV. COMMUNITY CONTEXT
Note - 2016 Census data is not available at the
time of writing this Plan, except for population
statistics. As such, 2011 Census data is largely
relied on for developing the following Context
statements. When available, other more current
data sources are also relied upon.
Community Planning
While our last OCP was written 15 years ago,
this OCP does not radically change the course
established by that Plan. Rather, our new Plan
clarifies the Town's long term vision and articulates
its development direction in greater detail in the
future context of change.
Creston Today
The Town of Creston is located on the east side
of the Kootenay River Valley at the foot of Arrow
Mountain (known locally as Goat Mountain). Most
of the Town is situated on a bench-like landform
that rises significantly above the Valley floor. The
remainder of the Town, roughly 30 percent of its land
area, extends up the lower slope of Arrow Mountain
and is largely un-serviced and undeveloped. By
virtue of its elevated setting, Creston enjoys a
grand vista over the fields in the valley and onto
the Selkirk Mountains to the west and the majestic
Skimmerhorns of the Purcell Mountains to the east.
Creston was first incorporated as a Village in 1924, then
as a Town in 1965. Today, the Town of Creston strives
to maintain its small town character while experiencing
a small but steady population increase since 2006.
Census Year Population Percentage Change in
5 year increments
2001
4,795
-0.6%
from
1996
census
2006
4,825
+0.6%
2011
5,306
+10%
2016
5,351
+0.8%
For the purposes of this planning effort, a 1% total
population growth rate is used. Based on this
rate, the Town will reach an estimated population
of 6,212 by 2031. This population estimate is
key to understanding what, if any, additional
serviced residential lands are required; what our
infrastructure debt is; how we choose to manage
growth and development; and more.
Our Neighbours
The Town of Creston recognizes, acknowledges and
respects that this Official Community Plan (OCP)
area is located within the traditional territory of the
Lower Kootenay Band. Since time immemorial the
Lower Kootenay Band, locally known as Yaqan
Nukiy, were the original inhabitants of the Lower
Kootenay area. The name Yaqan Nukiy literally
means "where the rock stands" and refers to an
important place in the Creston Valley. Today, the
Lower Kootenay Band is located on approximately
6,000 acres in the beautiful Creston Valley, along
the banks of the Kootenay River in south eastern
British Columbia. The main community is located
4 km south of Creston and just north of the USA
border on Simon Road.
Incorporated in 1965, the Regional District of
Central Kootenay (RDCK) is a local government
that serves an estimated population of 60,000
residents. The Town of Creston is one of nine
member municipalities, including: Castlegar, Kaslo,
Nakusp, Nelson, New Denver, Salmo, Silverton
and Slocan. In addition to these municipalities, the
region consists of 11 Electoral Areas ("A", "B", "C",
"D", "E", "F", "G", "H", "I", "J", "K").
Creston is located within the southern portion of the
RDCK, immediately adjacent to Electoral Areas "A",
"B", and "C". The Town participates in a significant
number of shared services with these RDCK
Electoral Areas ranging from the Creston Valley
Public Library, to the Arrow Creek water system,
to the Creston & District Community Complex and
more. In addition, these partners work together
on various programs and projects to advance the
quality of life within the Creston Valley as a whole.
20
OCP - FRESHLY PICKED FUTURE
IV. COMMUNITY CONTEXT
Demographics
Age
In 2011, the median age of Creston residents was
55.2 years of age. This is 15 years older than the
Canadian average. However, it is interesting to
note that when comparing the 2006 to 2011 Census
data, Creston households with children have grown
in number by approximately 33% compared to a
decrease of 4% for Creston households without
children. In addition, between 2006 and 2011, the
young adult population (20-34 years of age) has
grown by approximately 24%.
Demographic Spectrum
Creston is a community that recognizes the
contribution of all ages to community life.
In 2013, after Creston completed the Age Friendly
Action Plan, the Province of British Columbia and
AgeFriendlyBC recognized the Town of Creston as
an Age-Friendly Community. The local commitment
to age friendliness has not gone unnoticed on a
national scale. In 2015, the Globe & Mail recognized
Creston among their picks for retirement "hot spots"
in Canada!
Creston has also prioritized youth and their
engagement in the community. In 2013, Columbia
Basin Trust (CBT) and the Town of Creston hosted
a youth forum. Of all the youth forums that CBT
hosted in the region, ours had the largest participant
turnout. More than 75 people, mostly youth, gathered
to set priorities for making the Creston Valley a
better place to be a teen. Since then, the Town of
Creston and other partners have collaborated to
action these priorities.
Income (2011)
The average 2011 household income in Creston
was $53,908 compared to the Provincial average
household income of $77,378.
Household Size (2011)
The average 2011 household size in Creston was
2.1 persons, compared to the Provincial average
household size of 2.5 persons. This slight difference
in household size could be attributed to a large
percentage of retirees living in Creston.
Community Infrastructure
In 2014, the Town of Creston reported its
infrastructure consisted of:
i.
26 km of storm sewer pipe
ii. 51 km of sanitary sewer pipe
iii. 60 km of water pipe
iv. 50 km of paved roads
v. 5 km of unpaved roads
Note - This data is submitted by the Town
of Creston to the Union of British Columbia
Municipalities (UBCM) as a requirement of Gas
Tax Funding. Updated reporting will be required
in 2019.
Limits to Growth
Projected Population Growth: Looking forward,
and using a realistic growth rate of 1.0%, Creston
can anticipate a population of approximately 5,852
persons by 2025, and 6,212 persons by 2031.
Infrastructure Capacity: Creston has adequate
water supply and sewerage treatment capacity
to meet its needs through 2030 and beyond,
given an annual growth rate of 1%. In 2009, the
Town implemented water conservation measures
as a way of lowering its annual operating and
maintenance costs, and deferring capacity system
improvements. Between 2009 and 2013, Creston
reduced its gross water demand by 17%.
Geographic Limitations: Geographic (physical)
limitations to outward growth and expansion include
the Agricultural Land Reserve to the north, west,
and south, and the steep slopes of Arrow Mountain
to the east.
Community Amenities and
Public Spaces
Creston has a network of trails throughout the
community. In addition to the many informal
21
OCP - FRESHLY PICKED FUTURE
IV. COMMUNITY CONTEXT
unmaintained trails and pathways, the Town of
Creston recently constructed 1.3 km of maintained
asphalt trails. These trails connect the Farmers'
Market, Dog Park, Green Gym, and the Creston
Valley Public Library. The Town also maintains a
network of over 15 km of sidewalks throughout the
community.
Each of the parks in the Town of Creston is unique.
Park types range from Millennium Park, which
is home to traditional Japanese gardens and an
outdoor amphitheatre, to Shikurski Park, which
is largely a natural green space. Recent park
developments in the Town include an off-leash dog
park and two outdoor exercise areas. In total, parks
make up approximately 1% of the total land area
contained within municipal boundaries.
The Town of Creston recently completed a
conceptual plan for future Market Park that would
occupy the brownfield space between the Armitage
Centre in the North, to Extra Foods in the South.
The goal is to create a place of distinction within
the community where people are motivated to stop,
linger, and explore the Park, the downtown and
the Valley. The future Market Park will also be the
permanent home for the Farmers' Market, and a
site for public outdoor events. The conceptual plan
features a significant Yaqan Nukiy Heritage Park; a
place to meet, share and learn about the evolving
culture of the local indigenous community.
Economy
The total number of Creston business licences
issued in 2017 was 459. Of these, 360 were business
licences associated with a Creston address. The
remaining 99 licences were for businesses located
outside of Town, who conduct business within Town
limits.
The Town of Creston is committed to identifying
challenges and opportunities related to business
growth. In 2015, the Town undertook two Business
Walks in cooperation with the Creston Valley
Chamber of Commerce and the Provincial Ministry
of Jobs, Tourism and Skills Training.
Downtown Business Walk (May 2015)
The Downtown Core of Creston is geographically
centered on Canyon Street, and extends from
Vancouver Street in the west, to 16th Avenue in
the east. In 2007, a revitalization program was
commenced which facilitated the installation of curb
extensions, landscaping, street furniture and street
trees to enhance the pedestrian experience. Since
the completion of these improvements, downtown
Creston has seen new construction, as well as
numerous renovations and façade improvement
projects.
According to the May 2015 Business Walk,
conducted by the Town of Creston, Creston Valley
Chamber of Commerce and the BC Ministry of Jobs,
Tourism and Skills Training, 94% of the downtown
businesses polled described business as steady or
increasing.
In addition, of the 68 downtown businesses who
responded, it was reported that they employ a total
of 457 people. There are 242 full-time positions,
151 part-time positions, and 64 contract or seasonal
positions.
Northwest Boulevard (October 2015)
Northwest Boulevard extends from Canyon Street
in the south, to the Highway 3/3A intersection, and
provides access to Creston's General Commercial
and Highway Service Commercial designated land
use areas. Numerous businesses are located
along Northwest Boulevard catering to the travelling
public, as well as the Creston Valley Mall.
DID YOU KNOW?
The Town of Creston, to date,
has
implemented
two
different
Revitalization
Tax
Exemption
Programs designed to stimulate
economic revitalization and growth
in the community.
22
A second Business Walk, conducted in October
2015, targeted business along the commercial/
industrial corridor located adjacent to Northwest
Boulevard. Of the 40 businesses polled 96%
indicated their business was steady or increasing
and that they employed a total of 305 people. There
were 212 full-time positions, 68 part-time positions,
and 25 contract or seasonal positions.
Building on the data collected in both the May
2015 and the October 2015 Business Walks, it
was reported that a combined total of 762 jobs are
represented by the 108 businesses polled during
the Phase 1 & 2 Business Walk events.
Tax Base (2017)
2017 Taxable Assessed Values for Town of
Creston property classes, including both land and
improvements, total $625,435,676.00 and are
broken down as follows:
Property Class
Assessed Value
Residential (all types)
$540,450,400
Utilities (Gas, Phone,
Electrical)
$1,319,870
Light Industry
$12,499,300
Business &
Miscellaneous
$70,711,100
Recreation Non-Profit
$397,300
Farm
$57,706
Total
$625,435,676
Neighbourhoods and Housing
Tenure and Affordability (2011)
There are approximately 2,460 occupied private
dwellings in Creston. The vast majority (71%) were
single-family homes. There were also 135 row house
units, 170 Mobile Homes, and 335 apartments.
Most households in Creston were occupied by
OCP - FRESHLY PICKED FUTURE
IV. COMMUNITY CONTEXT
couples without children (905), followed closely by
one-person households (860). The current median
listing price in our community is $299,900 for a
single family home and $149,000 for an apartment
style residential development unit.
Housing Age (2011)
Of Creston's 2460 private occupied residential
units, 32% (780) were constructed prior to 1960,
26% between 1961 and 1980, 30% between 1981
and 2000, and 12% constructed between 2001 and
2011.
Building Permits (2014-2016)
Building permit activity in Creston has remained
relatively stable over the past several years,
reflecting a range of 10 to 23 new residential
units each year with a total construction value of
$14,605,000 over the 3 years.
Affordable Housing
When the Creston Valley Community Housing
Society assessed the need for low-cost housing in
2012, they determined that 100 more units were
needed. Although they had initially assumed that
the local need for low-cost housing would be mainly
among seniors, their research suggests that young
families are actually the most in need.
Note - This is the most recent available data at
time of writing this Plan.
23
OCP - FRESHLY PICKED FUTURE
IV. COMMUNITY CONTEXT
Housing Preference
Through
the
2016
Community
Engagement
process for this OCP, residents identified cottage/
Pocket Neighbourhood style housing as the leading
preferred housing type. Consistently, people
preferred smaller, alternative housing options such
as small lot single detached housing, Co-Housing,
assisting living and live/work options. Interestingly,
large lot single detached housing was the only
housing type for which the majority of respondents
answered that no additional dwellings were needed.
Connectivity
Connectivity Preferences
As part of the 2013 Community Conversations
process, many local residents helped to map
our community's local vision of sustainability for
2030 and beyond. The vision ranked modes of
transportation from most to least desired:
1.
Pedestrian, bikes, scooters and strollers;
2.
Transit and movement of goods;
3.
Private vehicles (high occupancy and low
impact technology); and,
4.
Private
vehicles
(single
occupant
and
traditional technologies).
Transit
B.C. Transit operates four public transit routes which
service the Town of Creston: Erickson, Wynndel,
West Creston and Creston-Cranbrook connector
routes. In addition, BC Transit's Health Connections
program provides bus transportation to non-
emergency medical appointments in Cranbrook two
days per week.
Commercial Transportation
Greyhound Bus Lines has a Depot in Creston, with
both Westbound and Eastbound departures offered
once daily. The Canadian Pacific Railway provides
freight services to points throughout North America
from the Town of Creston. Air access to and from
Creston is via Cranbrook and Castlegar regional
24
OCP - FRESHLY PICKED FUTURE
IV. COMMUNITY CONTEXT
airports with flights to Calgary and Vancouver
several times a day. The Creston Valley Airport is
suitable for light aircraft and small charter planes,
and offers BC Air Ambulance service.
Vehicle Traffic
Commercial highway traffic in the Downtown Core
of Creston is a significant issue with local residents.
A proposed realignment of Highway 3 to a location
adjacent to the Downtown Core (Cook Street) has
long been established as a Council priority.
Walkability
Citizens surveyed in 2009 responded that Creston's
trail system is of high importance; however overall
satisfaction with trails is only moderately positive.
Since 2009, the Town of Creston has prioritized
the expansion of the trail and sidewalk network,
connecting
the
commercial,
residential
and
recreation nodes within the community.
Recreation
The Town of Creston actively supports many
community events such as the Blossom Festival,
Santa Claus Parade, Canada Day celebrations, and
Creston Valley Fall Fair.
The Creston & District Community Complex boasts
a wide variety of facilities including an ice arena,
curling rink, lap and leisure pool, soccer field,
baseball fields, outdoor volleyball courts and more.
Extensive recreational programming for both young
and old are also available at the Complex.
Outdoor recreation opportunities including hunting,
fishing, hiking and back country skiing, just to name
a few, are available within minutes of downtown
Creston.
V. LAND USE
POLICIES
26
OCP - FRESHLY PICKED FUTURE
V. LAND USE POLICIES
LAND USE POLICY: CITIZEN DIRECTION
We are committed to managing growth and development on our terms. Future growth and development should
make efficient use of the Town of Creston's natural and human resources, municipal financial resources, and
land base. Our preference is for smaller-scale development that is pursued at a steady, but measured pace.
We wish for land use to be managed creatively - maximizing benefits, minimizing drawbacks, and sharing
responsibility for stewardship wherever appropriate. We are committed to evaluating the potential impacts of
local land use on the entire Creston Valley and on generations to come. Where compromise or trade-offs are
necessary, the Town should align its decisions with the values and goals laid out in this Plan. Implementing
this Plan should bring about the legacies we wish for this OCP: protecting Creston's natural setting and
resources; offering good quality of life for people of all ages and abilities; developing a vibrant economy and
ensuring that all people can enjoy a good standard of living; becoming known as a great place to live and
visit; preserving and enhancing our rural and indigenous culture and heritage; and, working together with
government, businesses, and community groups.
Land use polices are outlined in the following categories:
Management of Residential Growth
Residential
Commercial
Industrial
Institutional
Recreational Parks & Open Space
Development & the Natural Environment
Infrastructure
Note - Public utilities, facilities and open space are identified on Map 9 of this Plan. These public utility land uses
are designated as Institutional on Schedule A of this Plan.
Note - Agricultural land uses are designated as Agricultural Land Reserve on Schedule A of the Plan.
27
Management of Residential
Growth Land Use Policies
The community's approach to residential growth:
i. Proactively
plan
for
continued
growth,
reflective
of
Creston's
Housing
Needs
Assessment.
ii. Anticipate the accommodation of 445 units by
2030 and 1437 units by 2045.
iii. Address affordable, rental, special needs,
senior, and shelter housing.
iv. Use existing municipal infrastructure.
v. Avoid
development
on
steep
slopes,
elevations and other hazard lands.
vi. Avoid
development
on
environmentally
sensitive lands and mitigating flood risks.
vii. Support the principles of walkable and multi-
modal neighbourhoods.
Rationale
- Creston's estimated 2024 asset replacement
cost for roads, water, sewer and drainage
is approximately $152 million. Many Town
assets have already passed the halfway mark
in their life cycles, and some are nearing the
end of their useful life. BL#2041
- Our
community
currently
has
enough
serviced, undeveloped residential land for the
next 15 to 20 years (plus) and for a population
of approximately 9,100.
Note - The location, amount, type, and density
of residential development are detailed in the
following sections 1 and 2 and designated on
Schedule A of this Plan.
- It is recognized that building on steep slopes
and in flood plains can be hazardous as well
as expensive; construction and maintenance
costs are higher in these kinds of areas.
- Not all areas of the community are within easy
walking distances of services and amenities.
OCP - FRESHLY PICKED FUTURE
V. LAND USE POLICIES
A. MANAGEMENT OF RESIDENTIAL GROWTH
1. Residential Growth Policies within the
Residential Growth Containment Area
(RGCA)
1.1 Maintain a Residential Growth Containment
Area (RGCA) based on:
1.1.1 The location and capacities of existing
municipal utilities;
1.1.2 Avoiding development on steep slopes in
excess of 25% grade;
1.1.3 Avoiding
development
on
environmentally sensitive lands;
1.1.4 Supporting the principles of walkable
and multi-modal neighbourhoods; and,
1.1.5 Suppport infill development.
1.2 Encourage new residential development to be
constructed near the Downtown Area, schools,
parks, and multi-modal transportation routes.
1.3 Ensure all new developments address the
cost of required infrastructure and services
including roads, water, sewer, storm water
management, and provision of parks.
1.4 Explore financing tools such as Development
Cost Charges and Amenity Cost Charges to
collect funds for infrastructure and community
amenities within the RGCA, such as water,
sewer, roads, parks, transportation, child care
facilities and community centres.
2. Residential and Utility Growth
Management Policies outside of the
Residential Growth Containment Area
(RGCA)
2.1 Establish the minimum parcel size outside
the RGCA as determined by Provincial
Health Standards for on-site wastewater
management and a minimum parcel size of
0.4 hectares (1 acre).
2.2 Discourage the expansion of municipal roads,
utilities, water, and sanitary sewer services for
residential development outside the existing
BL#2041
BL#2041
BL#2041
28
OCP - FRESHLY PICKED FUTURE
service areas.
3. Regulatory Update Policies BL#2041
3.1 Review and update Town of Creston regulatory
documents as necessary to align with this
Plan, in order to achieve the community's
preferred approach to management of growth
and development.
Note - For greater detail on updates to the Town
of Creston regulatory documents, see pg. 108 of
this Plan.
V. LAND USE POLICIES
A. MANAGEMENT OF RESIDENTIAL GROWTH
Residential Growth Containment Area Map
OCP - FRESHLY PICKED FUTURE
Note - See larger version of this Map (Section X of this Plan) for greater detail.
V. LAND USE POLICIES
Town of Creston
Official Community Plan Update - 2017
Residential Growth Containment Area
Town of Creston Boundary
Creeks
Map 1:
Residential Growth
Containment Area
30
Residential Land Use Policies
The category of Residential Land Use includes the
designations of:
-
Residential - includes all forms of housing
located
within
the
Residential
Growth
Containment Area (RGCA) excluding the
Downtown Core, and the Northwest Boulevard
Local Area Plan.
-
Rural Residential - includes all forms of
housing located outside of the RGCA, whether
located in the Agricultural Land Reserve (ALR)
or not.
Note
-
See
Community
Goals
&
Policies;
Neighbourhoods & Housing (pg. 81 of this Plan)
for more policies related to residential housing and
neighbourhoods.
Note - Development Permits (Part VI in this
Plan) are applicable to certain lands containing
Residential uses in accordance with Schedule C
of this Plan. This includes but is not limited to the
Multi-Family DPA 3, Downtown Core DPA 4, and
Northwest Boulevard Local Area Plan DPA 6.
1. General Policies BL#2041
1.1 Consider establishing a Servicing Officer
to secure additional amenities including
street furniture, parklets, streetlamps, wider
sidewalks,
street
trees,
traffic
calming
measures, and sustainable design features to
improve neighbourhoods.
1.2 Consider Commercial Neighbourhood uses
in areas with a Land Use Designation of
Residential within the RGCA.
1.3 Consider lowering parking minimums in
low, medium, and high residential zones,
especially for residential areas with identified
street
parking
opportunities
and
within
walkable proximity to the Downtown Area.
1.4 Require new subdivisions to be developed
with access points suitable for evacuation
and movement of emergency response
equipment.
1.5 Require all multi-family and apartment style
developments to conform to the Multi-Family
Development Permit Area Guidelines.
2. Housing Supply for Future Need BL#2041
2.1 Seek to accommodate construction of 445
units by 2030, and 1437 units by 2045, using
a diversity of housing and tenure forms.
2.2 Update and maintain a comprehensive
housing strategy that advances the objectives
within this Plan and that:
2.2.1 Addresses and identifies the diversity
of housing needs best suited to the
community's current and projected
population
growth
and
housing
demand, including the supports needed
for vulnerable populations.
2.2.2 Identifies key housing priority areas
including non-market housing, rental
housing,
supportive
housing,
and
attainable housing.
3. Affordable Housing BL#2041
3.1 Consider establishing an Affordable Housing
Fund.
3.2 Consider development of an Inclusionary
Zoning Bylaw to secure affordable units within
housing developmentes.
3.3 Consider development of a Density Bonus
Bylaw
to
secure
additional
developer-
sponsored and created: Usable Public Open
Space, trails, housing, affordable housing
including the tenue of affordable units, and
other amenities. An equivalent cash in-lieu
contribution may be made to the Town's
Affordable Housing Fund.
OCP - FRESHLY PICKED FUTURE
B. RESIDENTIAL
V. LAND USE POLICIES
31
3.4 Advocate to the Regional District of Central
Kootenay Electoral Areas A, B, and C to
improve the regional housing affordability
and increase housing supply and diversity
throughout the region.
3.5 Consider reducing front yard setbacks to allow
for additional detached accessory dwelling
units behind primary dwellings and townhouse
style developments.
3.6 Lobby the Province to be able to apply
Development
Cost
Charges
to
new
developments to help fund employee housing.
3.7 Continue to research innovative ways to
convert existing, non-conforming secondary
accessory dwelling units into compliant units.
3.8 Support critical infrastructure projects to
advance residential development capacity
and support cost savings for developers.
3.9 Explore incentives to support the conversion
of commercial, institutional, and industrial
buildings to mix-used developments.
3.10 Continue to incentivize the development of
detached accessory dwelling units by offering
free building plans certified by an Energy
Advisor.
4. Rental Housing BL#2041
4.1 Consider establishing residential rental tenure
zoning to ensure that existing rental housing
is preserved and to require new residential
areas to be developed as rental units.
4.2 Advocate to the Regional District of Central
Kootenay Electoral Areas A, B, and C to
remove secondary dwelling restrictions that
further restrict Agricultural Land Reserve
requirements.
4.3 For buildings with four units or more,
conversions of rental units to stratified units
are generally not supported when the vacancy
OCP - FRESHLY PICKED FUTURE
B. RESIDENTIAL
V. LAND USE POLICIES
rate as provided by Canada Mortgage and
Housing Corporation for Creston is at 4% or
lower for a period of two consecutive years.
4.4 Consider increasing minimum lot coverage
for lots with a detached accessory dwelling
unit with 3 or more bedrooms to support the
development of family-oriented units.
4.5 Regularly review the Town of Creston Rental
Standards of Maintenance Bylaw No. 1951,
2022, as amended from time to time, to ensure
rentals are maintained to an acceptable
standard.
4.6 During consideration of rezoning applications
for new strata-title developments of four units
or more, explore housing agreements and
covenants that ensure opportunity for use of
all units as rental units is within strata bylaws.
4.7 Work with a range of partners, including senior
levels of government and the private sector, to
support and pilot innovative approaches that
facilitate more attainable home ownership
housing, such as Pocket Neighbourhoods, to
support the development of compact homes
and complete neighbourhoods
5. Special Needs Housing and Housing
Support BL#2041
5.1 Consider permitting community care facilities
in multi-family residential zones within the
RGCA that conform to the Multi-Family
Development Permit Area Guidelines.
5.2 Encourage mixed-use developments that
integrate housing and necessary services
including childcare and health services.
5.3. Encourage non-profit organizations, supportive
housing groups, developers, and senior levels
of government to develop or facilitate the
development of:
32
B. RESIDENTIAL
V. LAND USE POLICIES
OCP - FRESHLY PICKED FUTURE
5.3.1 Transitional
housing
for
people
experiencing homelessness;
5.3.2 Supportive
housing
with
adequate
services for people experiencing mental
health issues; and,
5.3.3 Independent living units and assisted
living facilities for seniors and people
with disabilities.
5.4 Consider childcare facilities within areas
designated
as
Residential
within
the
RGCA.
6. Transportation Orientated Development
BL#2041
6.1 Continue to advocate for improved public
transportation systems within the Town of
Creston and the RDCK.
6.2 Support development projects located near
existing and planned trails and multi-modal
transportation routes.
6.3 Prioritize development of trails and multi-modal
transportation routes near existing medium
and high-density developments.
7. Mobile Homes Policies BL#2041
7.1 Recognize Mobile Homes (CSA-Z240) as a
type of Affordable Housing.
7.2 Restrict Mobile Homes to appropriately zoned
Mobile Home Parks.
7.3 Require new Mobile Home Parks to be
developed in a manner that enhances
both the adjoining neighbourhood and the
community as a whole by requiring that Mobile
Home Parks meet a high standard of design
including, but not limited to:
7.3.1 Adequate
buffering
from
adjacent
residential and non-residential uses;
7.3.2 Sufficient landscaping;
7.3.3 Usable Common Open Space; and,
7.3.4 Other requirements as outlined in the
Town of Creston Mobile Home Parks
Bylaw.
7.4. Review and amend the Town of Creston Mobile
Home Parks Bylaw to require appropriate
development including, but not limited to: form
and character, setbacks, landscaping and
screening and provision of Usable Common
Open Space.
7.5 Recognize
the
continuation
of
existing
Manufactured Home Parks irrespective of land
use designation, but require owner-initiated
redevelopment to align with the OCP land use
designation.
33
V. LAND USE POLICIES
B. RESIDENTIAL
OCP - FRESHLY PICKED FUTURE
34
Commercial Land Use Policies
There are four types of Commercial Land Uses,
each with their own Development Permit Area and
associated Guidelines:
- Downtown Core Commercial;
- General Commercial;
- Northwest Boulevard Local Area Plan; and,
- Highway Service Commercial.
Note - Development Permits (Part VI in this
Plan) are applicable to certain lands containing
Commercial uses, including but not limited to
the commercial revitalization area DPA 4 - 7, in
accordance with Schedule C of this Plan.
1. General Policies
1.1 The development or redevelopment of
commercially zoned property shall address
environmental sustainability, visual appeal,
functionality, walkability and integration with
the larger community.
1.2 Consider Temporary Use Permits (TUPs)
for special, short term uses on commercially
zoned properties and public spaces.
1.3 Consider food trucks and other street vendors
in Commercial areas.
1.4 Consider food trucks and other vendors in
public parks and public spaces.
1.5 Support the development of a thriving and
diversified agri-food sector by encouraging
agriculture related commercial activities, such
as produce stands, in areas designated for
Commercial land use or through the use of
Temporary Use Permits in other designated
areas.
1.6 Consider home occupations in residential
areas in accordance with the Town of Creston
Zoning Bylaw.
1.7 Seek out opportunities to improve the aesthetic
of Northwest Boulevard through greening of
lands affected by utility rights-of-way.
1.8 Consider outdoor and seasonal short-term
use of public spaces, and parking spaces for
commercial activities, such as outdoor patios,
food trucks, and sidewalk sales where they
can be established safely in accordance with
provincial requirements in light of Canyon
Street/Highway 3 being a provincial highway.
BL#1968
2. Downtown Core Commercial Policies
2.1 Permit a variety of commercial uses within
a mixed use commercial/residential format
including, but not limited to: personal service,
retail, office, hotel/motel and restaurant
establishments in the Downtown Core.
2.2 Encourage the grouping of retail and
dining experiences, to support tourism and
community place making, in the Downtown
Core.
2.3 Consider flexible use of space for parking,
Commercial areas and a variety of outdoor
activities in the design for the future Market
Park.
Note - See Appendix C (pg. 137) for greater
detail on the conceptual design of future
Market Park.
2.4 Consider a range of parking options to support
a vibrant and accessible Downtown Core.
2.5 Consider a permanent location for the Creston
Valley Farmers' Market in the Downtown Area.
2.6 Recognize continuation of existing Single
Family Residential properties irrespective of
land use designation, but require owner-initiated
development to align with the OCP land use
designation. BL#1953
OCP - FRESHLY PICKED FUTURE
C. COMMERCIAL
V. LAND USE POLICIES
35
OCP - FRESHLY PICKED FUTURE
C. COMMERCIAL
V. LAND USE POLICIES
DID YOU KNOW?
Temporary Use Permits are intended to
provide the flexibility necessary to encourage
short-term economic activities, while ensuring
that the uses have minimal impact on the
natural environment and community, and
maintain a reasonable level of compatibility
with surrounding land uses.
DID YOU KNOW?
Home occupations play an important role
as business incubators. Over 30% of all
Town of Creston Business Licences are
issued for home occupations.
36
Industrial Land Use Policies
Industrial
land
use
designations
generally
include warehousing, light manufacturing, heavy
manufacturing, resource-based processing, forest
industry services, agricultural processing, activities
requiring extensive outdoor storage, and sand /
gravel extraction.
The Town of Creston does not contain any significant
sand or gravel deposits within its municipal
boundaries which would be considered for future
extraction. As such, deposits of these types are not
identified within this Plan. Currently, all aggregate
is extracted from a municipally owned property
located north of Creston in Wynndel.
Note - Development Permits (Part VI in this Plan)
are applicable to certain lands containing Industrial
uses, including but not limited to the Industrial DPA
8, in accordance with Schedule C of this Plan.
1. General Policies
1.1 Direct Industrial uses to those areas
designated as Industrial on the land use
designation map in Schedule A of this Plan.
1.2 Review and amend permitted uses within
the M-1 (Light Industrial) and M-2 (Heavy
Industrial) zones of the Town of Creston
Zoning Bylaw to permit principle uses that are
appropriate to Creston's small town character.
1.3 Consider
environmental
sustainability,
visual appeal, functionality, walkability and
integration with the larger community for
development or redevelopment of Industrial
lands.
1.4 Promote Industrial activity that is clean,
sensitive to the environment and generates
employment for local residents.
1.5 Facilitate
Industrial
development
by
designating an adequate supply of Industrial
land that meets the needs of a range of
industries.
1.6 Consider a satellite expansion of the municipal
boundary to incorporate the Creston Valley
Regional Airport, located on municipally
owned lands, as a means to supplement the
Industrial land base.
1.7 The development of Industrial lands for
uses that are synergistic with existing local
industrial activities (where the waste from one
facility is used as input in another) shall be
encouraged.
1.8 Encourage the development of a greenhouse-
based agricultural industry.
OCP - FRESHLY PICKED FUTURE
D. INDUSTRIAL
V. LAND USE POLICIES
37
Institutional Land Use Policies
The Institutional land use designation generally
includes public, non-profit or utility uses such as
schools, churches, recreation facilities, public
health facilities, community care facilities, fire halls,
libraries, post offices, government buildings, and
utility services such as water, sanitary sewer, hydro,
etc. It should be noted that within this OCP, no new
lands are proposed for additional schools as the
number of students enrolled in the public education
system in Creston has declined over the last 15
years.
Note - Development Permits (Part VI in this
Plan) are applicable to certain lands containing
Institutional uses in accordance with Schedule B
of this Plan.
General Policies
1.1 Consider Religious Institutional uses in
areas designated as Residential within
the Residential Growth Containment Area
(RGCA).
1.2 Encourage
Institutional
development
to be compatible with the surrounding
neighbourhood, particularly in Residential
areas.
1.4 Encourage the grouping of Institutional uses
within walking distance of the Downtown Core
or the Creston Valley Mall.
1.5 Incorporate Universal Design Guidelines into
all new Institutional development.
1.6 Encourage all Institutional buildings to provide
walkway access from the front entrance of the
building to the street (sidewalk).
1.7 Consider a potential location for a new fire hall/
emergency services building that promotes
efficient delivery of public safety services to
residents.
1.8 Support Congregate Care facilities and other
health care facilities which provide health care
services, based on changing individual needs,
in locations within easy walking distance of
the Downtown Core.
1.9 Facilitate collaboration with School District No.
8 (Kootenay Lake) and the Regional District
of Central Kootenay (RDCK) to develop
and maintain school sites and facilities for
recreational use by the entire community.
1.10 Work with the Agricultural Land Commission
to re-designate the municipally owned lands
legally described as Block 42, District Lot 9555,
Kootenay District, Plan B40, as Institutional or
Industrial. BL#1968
1.11 Consider the use of municipally owned
lands legally described as Block 42, District
Lot 9555, Kootenay District, Plan B40, for
purposes other than Agriculture as defined by
the Agriculture Land Commission.
DID YOU KNOW?
Institutional developments are important
contributors to Creston's social fabric and
the local economy. Health, education,
recreation
and
special
government
services are key facilitators for economic
diversification and commercial growth.
The Town of Creston has approximately
28 hectares of Institutionally designated
land. These developments include: the
Creston & District Community Complex,
the Creston & District Museum, Town Hall,
public schools, churches, parks and more.
OCP - FRESHLY PICKED FUTURE
E. INSTITUTIONAL
V. LAND USE POLICIES
38
Parks & Open Space Land Use
Policies
Parks & Open Space refers to: privately owned lands;
and lands owned by the Town of Creston for use
as parks and open space; and, stream and natural
drainage corridors - specifically Dodd's Creek and
Glaser-King Creeks. Parks are permitted in all land
use designations.
Note - Additional policies on Connectivity are
provided on pg. 89 of this Plan.
Note - See the Greenways & Trails Master Plan,
for greater detail on the comprehensive strategy for
the ongoing development of parks and community-
wide trail networks.
Note - Development Permits (Part VI in this Plan)
are applicable to certain lands containing Parks and
Open Spaces uses in accordance with Schedules B
and C of this Plan.
1. General Policies
1.1 Encourage the preservation of natural open
space in the community as a means to provide
for active and passive recreation and leisure
uses.
1.2 Encourage the preservation of natural open
space areas located on steep slopes, in ravines,
in areas that are undevelopable, and in areas
that provide important habitat in their natural
condition.
1.3 Encourage the retention of significant natural
vegetation.
1.4 Consider collaboration with School District No.
8 and the Regional District of Central Kootenay
(RDCK) to develop and maintain school sites
and facilities for recreational use by the entire
community.
1.5 Consider the adoption of bylaws or other
measures to create smoke free outdoor spaces
where citizens (particularly children) live, work,
learn and play. Protect areas such as: parks,
playgrounds, multi-use fields, heritage buildings,
hiking and biking trails and other public facilities.
1.6 Explore opportunities for the development and
enhancement of sites and facilities for sports
including, but not limited to: climbing, tennis, slo-
pitch and soccer.
1.7 Develop a Parks Master Plan to create
cohesiveness and diversity between recreational
spaces. BL#1968
2. Parkland Dedication Policies
2.1 Set Development Cost Charges for the
development of parkland that adequately reflects
the community's need for parks.
2.2 Parkland dedication not exceeding 5% of gross
developable site area shall be required with
all new subdivisions where 3 or more new lots
are created, and may be in a form and shape
as determined by the Town for best meeting the
particular requirements of the area, including but
not limited to: linear parks or trails, creek-front
parks, neighbourhood tot lots, irregularly shaped
conservation and/or habitat enhancement areas,
etc.
2.3 A cash-in-lieu of parkland payment, not
exceeding 5% of the market value of the
proposed subdivision, may be accepted for
areas where:
2.3.1 The dedication of scattered public parks
may be impractical;
2.3.2 A suitable park site is not available within
the proposed subdivision;
2.3.3 The proposed subdivision is adequately
served in terms of access to existing
parkland;
2.3.4 The proposed subdivision is not within a
five-minute walk to an area where a "P" is
identified on Map 9, as being indicative of
an area where a future park is desirable, or
the Town determines there are preferred
options to acquire the parkland in that
area;
2.3.5 The proposed subdivision does not have the
opportunity, as determined by the Town,
OCP - FRESHLY PICKED FUTURE
F. RECREATIONAL PARKS & OPEN SPACE
V. LAND USE POLICIES
39
or in fee simple, including as part of a density
bonusing framework allowing for additional
lots, as a gift to the community, or other lawful
granting.
3. Municipally Owned Parks & Open Space
Policies
3.1 Provide a variety of park uses, equipment and
programming to meet the diverse needs of
residents and visitors of all ages and abilities.
3.2 Establish an integrated and linked system of
parks, trails, natural areas, Greenways and
associated recreational facilities serving a
variety of purposes, including active recreation,
passive enjoyment and conservation.
3.3 Provide a diversity of multi-use park types which
feature a mix of open and treed spaces, trails,
community gardens, and varied recreational
amenities suitable for a range of ages and
abilities.
3.4 Explore the development of additional off-leash
dog parks.
3.5 Consider providing bear-proof waste receptacles
and dog bag dispensers in municipal parks
and at the trailheads that fall within municipal
boundaries.
3.6 Explore recreational opportunities on the lands
designated as Municipal Forest.
3.7 Consider creating Pop-Up Parks on municipally
owned properties, undeveloped municipal
rights-of-way and isolated parking areas to
create places for people instead of vehicles.
3.8 Transform the future Market Park site into a
distinctive landscaped green space in the heart
of the Downtown Core.
to expand public walking infrastructure,
trail networks or multi-modal linkages and
routes;
2.3.6 Parkland in the proposed subdivision does
not provide the opportunity to expand
an existing park, trail, environmental
protection or other recreation areas;
2.3.7 Parkland or trail development in the
proposed subdivision does not advance
other policies within this Plan respecting
the location and type of future parks and
trails, or policies in the Town's Greenways
and Trails Master Plan and Parks Master
Plan, as and when it is approved by
Council. BL#1968
2.4 New parkland dedication shall be based on
best practices and shall be required for all new
subdivisions in the following forms:
2.4.1 Greenways will be a preferred form
of parkland dedication where linkage
between areas of the community is
desired;
2.4.2 Greenways will be a preferred form of
parkland dedication where it will result
in the preservation of areas adjacent to
watercourses;
2.4.3 Blocks of parkland may be preferred
where they will result in the preservation
of mature tree stands, or other habitat;
and,
2.4.4. Other locations and types of parkland may
be appropriate, at the Town's discretion,
in consideration of the location of the
proposed subdivision, existing public
lands
and
recreational
opportunities,
environmental
considerations,
and
respecting the Greenways and Trails
Master Plan and Parks Master Plan,
as may be amended from time to time.
BL#1968
2.5 Parkland or cash-in-lieu, at the Town's discretion,
exceeding 5% may be considered as dedication
DID YOU KNOW?
Parks, open spaces and Greenways
are important components of a healthy
community, benefiting both people and the
natural environment. In total, parks make up
just under 1% of Town land.
OCP - FRESHLY PICKED FUTURE
V. LAND USE POLICIES
F. RECREATIONAL PARKS & OPEN SPACE
40
Development & the Natural
Environment Land Use Policies
In order to protect environmentally sensitive areas
and reduce the risk of development in relation
to natural hazards and climate change in the
community, a number of Development Permit Areas
with associated Guidelines have been established
as growth management tools.
Note - For greater detail, see Development
Permit Areas 1 and 2, on pg. 51 to 55 of this
Plan.
In addition to these Development Permit Areas
(DPA 1 & 2), the following policies also apply:
1. General Policies
1.1. Undertake a municipal boundary extension
to include lands north of 1130 - 16th Avenue
North, currently owned by the Ministry of
Transportation and Infrastructure, to allow
for municipally managed access to the Arrow
Mountain Highway Bypass.
1.2. Work with Ministry of Transportation and
Infrastructure regarding the use of the Arrow
Mountain Highway Bypass as a Wildfire Fuel
Mitigation area and to allow for municipally
managed access.
2. Environmental Considerations in
Planning and Design
2.1 Consideration shall be given to public
health implications, including air quality and
noise, in the evaluation of new industrial
and commercial development approval
requests.
2.2 Incorporate opportunities to include local
ecosystems and ecological processes in
urban design, infrastructure, development
and Public Realm improvements.
2.3 Promote Green Infrastructure initiatives
on private lands through education and
incentives.
2.4 Support the conservation and restoration
efforts of senior governments, public
agencies, organizations, landowners and
other partners.
2.5 Require Dark Sky Compliant Lighting
Guidelines within Multi-Family, Commercial
and Industrial Development Permits Areas.
OCP - FRESHLY PICKED FUTURE
G. DEVELOPMENT & THE NATURAL ENVIRONMENT
V. LAND USE POLICIES
41
3.1.2 Undertaking municipal infrastructure
maintenance and capital improvements;
3.1.3 Limiting expansion of the municipal
water system; and,
3.1.4 Recognizing the Valley wide water
requirements for sustainable agriculture,
commercial and industrial operations.
3.2 Partner to improve local water quality through
reduction of Point and Non-Point Source
Pollution, and through watershed planning.
OCP - FRESHLY PICKED FUTURE
G. DEVELOPMENT & THE NATURAL ENVIRONMENT
3. Sustainable Water Supply Policies
3.1 Promote a dependable and sustainable water
supply by modelling good stewardship of
water through practices that include:
3.1.1 Implementing community conservation
practices including, but not limited
to:
water
restrictions,
Xeriscape
Landscaping, rain gardens, rain barrels
and drip irrigation;
Note - See Appendix F (pg. 143 of this
Plan) for examples of rain gardens and
stormwater management tools.
V. LAND USE POLICIES
42
Infrastructure Land Use
Policies
To be sustainable, infrastructure should be efficient
and durable, while creating minimal impacts on the
environment. Road rights-of-way can be used in
manners that incorporate required infrastructure,
while
supporting
and
prioritizing
active
transportation. Costly Sprawl can be avoided by
developing in areas with existing infrastructure (see
pg. 27 of this Plan for Management of Residential
Growth). Greater resiliency can be achieved by using
natural assets to augment existing infrastructure.
Effective storm water management will reduce
impacts on our Waste Water Treatment Plant and
reduce negative impacts to stream corridors and
natural drainage systems. It is evident that the
infrastructure puzzle contains many pieces.
This Plan represents a significant turning point
for
Creston
in
infrastructure
planning,
and
understanding what kind of growth pays for itself.
Infrastructure planning and construction is tied
to the OCP to ensure efficient investments are
made and that costs associated with servicing new
development are fully borne by those who directly
benefit. It is intended that new developments
pay their share of the costs of downstream
infrastructure capacity improvements as a result
of their development through mechanisms such as
Development Cost Charges and other legislative
tools.
1. General Policies
1.1 Undertake
continued
maintenance
and
upgrading of existing infrastructure while
planning for the Lifecycle Infrastructure Costs
to the community (construction, maintenance
and replacement).
1.2 Amend the Town of Creston Development Cost
Charge Bylaw and the Five Year Financial Plan
to reflect an optimized use of infrastructure
and a reduced capital project work plan due to
the establishment of the Residential Growth
Containment Area (RGCA).
1.3 Prepare a Multi-Modal Transportation Plan
that prioritizes active transportation and
provides for safe and efficient circulation.
1.4 Develop a municipal Street Tree Planting
Program for the Public Realm.
1.5 Require Universal Design Guidelines to be
incorporated into, and applied to, all public
buildings, streets and community spaces.
1.6 Consideration will be given to opening
culverted creeks and day-lighting stream
channels where feasible and appropriate.
1.7 Encourage
the
inclusion
of
Green
Infrastructure systems in new construction
projects.
1.8 Update all Town of Creston infrastructure
related bylaws to provide consistency with
this OCP, including but not limited to: the
Works & Services Bylaw, the Drainage Bylaw,
the Liquid Waste Bylaw, the Sewer Rates &
Regulation Bylaw and the Water Rates &
Regulation Bylaw.
1.9 The following uses are permitted in all land
use designations:
1.9.1 Parks,
playgrounds,
trails,
public
recreation facilities, and open space
conservation areas;
1.9.2 Public service uses;
1.9.3 Community gardens; and,
1.9.4 Roads and lanes accessory to the
principal use of a property. BL#1953
2. Active Transportation Policies
2.1 Develop appropriately sized and linked trails,
paths and Greenways in accordance with the
Greenways & Trails Master Plan.
Note - See the Greenways & Trails Master
Plan, for greater detail.
2.2 Include bike travel when developing off-street
trail systems.
OCP - FRESHLY PICKED FUTURE
H. INFRASTRUCTURE
V. LAND USE POLICIES
43
2.3 Design unpaved trails with a surface material
that compacts and provides a hard surface to
accommodate bikes, scooters and strollers.
2.4 Include adequate signage (e.g. "share the
road") to promote bike safety along major
roads and highways, working with the Ministry
of Transportation & Infrastructure when
appropriate.
2.5 Consider installation of lighting on trails and
sidewalks to promote public safety, where
practical and feasible.
2.6 Encourage the Ministry of Transportation
& Infrastructure to provide public access to
the lands dedicated for the Arrow Mountain
Highway Bypass.
2.7 Encourage and support the establishment
of linkages for alternative modes of
transportation between the Town of Creston,
the Lower Kootenay Band Community,
Erickson,
Wynndel
and
other
regional
amenities.
2.8 Consider development of active transportation
projects that are consistent with the Multi-
modal Transporation Plan, 2023. BL#1968
3. Road Way Policies
3.1 Develop sidewalk and boulevard standards
to promote safe, efficient, accessible and
enjoyable passage.
3.2 Apply traffic calming techniques and strategies
to reduce vehicular traffic speeds and to
enhance road safety for pedestrians, scooters
and cyclists.
3.3 Install
additional
empty
conduits
when
undertaking municipal roadway and sidewalk
construction, to allow for easy installation
of future infrastructure improvements and
amenities, within the Public Realm.
3.4 Enhance crosswalk visibility through a
fiscally sustainable combination of lighting,
pavement markings, curb extensions and
clear sight lines.
3.5 Prepare Alternative Development Standards
for roadways that are consistent with the
Multi-Modal Transportation Plan objectives.
3.6 Complete
Streets
Guidelines
shall
be
incorporated into the Town of Creston Works
and Services Bylaw.
3.7 Transform roads designed exclusively for
cars into roads that serve Multi-Modal
Transportation including bikes and scooters.
Note - See Appendix E for examples of
sidewalks, street trees and street furniture.
4. Utility Servicing Policies
4.1 Discourage the expansion of municipal
utilities, water, and sanitary sewer services
outside the existing service areas and the
RGCA.
4.2 Consider the requirement for installation
of water meters for all existing and future
Residential, Commercial, Institutional and
Industrial uses.
4.3 Consider aligning water and sanitary sewer
utility rates for water and sanitary sewer
services to reflect the Lifecycle Infrastructure
Cost
(construction,
maintenance
and
replacement).
4.4 Consider
the
expansion
of
water
conservation
incentive
programs
to
encourage
the
installation
of
water-
conserving appliances and fixtures in new
construction.
4.5 Postpone the $1 million (2011 estimated
Did you know?
The estimated replacement cost of the Town
of Creston's entire transportation network, in
2014 dollars, is approximately $38.9 million.
This is equivalent to approximately $15,500
per household.
OCP - FRESHLY PICKED FUTURE
H. INFRASTRUCTURE
V. LAND USE POLICIES
44
DID YOU KNOW?
The Town of Creston's drainage infrastructure
network has a replacement cost of approximately
$15.3 million, in 2014 dollars. This is equivalent to
approximately $6,000 per household.
DID YOU KNOW?
The Town of Creston has enough existing
serviced land to accommodate approximately
9000 residents - that's a lot of room to grow
from our current population of 5351 people.
OCP - FRESHLY PICKED FUTURE
construction costs) capital outlay for a trunk
sewer extension along Hwy 21, with such
postponement reflected in the Town of
Creston Development Cost Charge Bylaw.
4.6 Practice the responsible management of
infrastructure by restricting the subdivision
of lands designated as Large Lot Residential
located outside the RGCA to those that do
not require the construction of additional
municipal infrastructure (i.e. roads, sewer pipes,
water pipes) and which meet minimum parcel
size requirements.
4.7 Discourage the expansion of the municipal water
service and sanitary sewer system for residential
development outside the RGCA and outside of
the Town of Creston boundaries where service
provision does not already exist (with exception
of policy 4.8 below).
4.8 Consider sanitary sewer expansion in the
area known as Edgemont Subdivision, located
immediately north of the RGCA along 8th
Avenue North, based on: neighborhood petition
for extension and connection to the municipal
sanitary
sewer
infrastructure;
associated
installation cost of infrastructure to be borne by
the affected residents; and, the restriction of any
further subdivision (no increased densification).
4.9 Require on-site pre-treatment of industrial
wastes prior to discharge into the municipal
sanitary sewer system for all new developments.
4.10 Undertake the recalculation of Development
Cost Charges to reflect cost reductions from
the discouragement of water and sewer
infrastructure projects outside the RGCA.
4.11 For new development in areas serviced by
municipal utilities, the cost of connection to
these utilities will be incurred by the developer.
4.12 Consider implementation of various local area
services taxes, further to Part 7, Division 5 of the
Community Charter.
5. Stormwater Management Policies
5.1 Prepare a Stormwater Management Plan that
provides a strategy to achieve on-site storm
water management reduced storm water
runoff, peak flows, local flooding and waterway
degradation. The Stormwater Management Plan
shall be consistent with the Town of Creston
Master Drainage Plan (2016), and address, but
not be limited to, the following considerations:
5.1.1 Storm water pollution and stormwater
loading on Dodd's Creek and Glaser-King
Creeks shall be reduced by introducing
measures to cleanse, reduce and delay
storm water runoff.
5.1.2 The use of source control measures
such as cisterns, rain gardens and dry
wells, designed to reduce and delay peak
stormwater flows and improve runoff water
quality, shall be encouraged.
5.1.3 Public lands such as parks and Greenways
and the valleys of Dodd's Creek and
Glaser-King Creeks shall be integrated
into the Town of Creston Stormwater
Management Plan. Soil permeability,
ground water and climatic conditions shall
be considered.
5.1.4 Stormwater management should avoid
the flooding of downstream development
or farmland by considering runoff potential
and risks from upland development.
V. LAND USE POLICIES
H. INFRASTRUCTURE
VI. DEVELOPMENT
PERMIT AREAS
47
DEVELOPMENT PERMIT AREAS:
OCP - FRESHLY PICKED FUTURE
VI. DEVELOPMENT PERMIT AREAS
Introduction
Under Section 488 of the Local Government Act, a
local government may designate areas of land as a
Development Permit Area (DPA) for one or more of
the following purposes:
a) protection of the natural environment, its
ecosystems and its biological diversity;
b) protection of development from hazardous
conditions;
c) protection of farming;
d) revitalization of an area in which a commercial
use is permitted;
e) establishment of objectives for the form and
character of intensive residential development;
f)
establishment of objectives for the form and
character of commercial, industrial or multi-
family residential development;
g) in relation to an area in a resort region,
establishment of objectives for the form and
character of development in the resort region;
h) establishment of objectives to promote energy
conservation;
i)
establishment of objectives to promote water
conservation; and,
j)
establishment of objectives to promote the
reduction of Greenhouse Gas (GHG) emissions.
All development, unless an exception is provided
on pg. 47-48 of this Plan, within the Development
Permit Areas designated under this Section of this
Plan shall require an application for a Development
Permit and shall be evaluated in respect to
compliance with the relevant stated Guidelines. The
term 'Development' includes, but is not limited to:
new construction and redevelopment, as well as
subdivision and land/building alteration. For greater
clarity, under Section 489 of the Local Government
Act, the following prohibitions apply unless the
owner first obtains a Development Permit:
a) land within the area must not be subdivided;
b) construction of, addition to or alteration of a
building or other structure must not be started;
c) land within an area designated under Section
488 (1)(a) or (b) [natural environment,
hazardous conditions] must not be altered;
INTRODUCTION
DPA 1
Wildfire Protection
Development Permit Area
DPA 5
General Commercial
Development Permit Area
DPA 6
Northwest Boulevard Local Area
Plan Development Permit Area
DPA 3
Multi-Family Residential
Development Permit Area
DPA 7
Highway Service Commercial
Development Permit Area
DPA 4
Downtown Core Development
Permit Area
DPA 8
Industrial Development
Permit Area
DPA 2
Environmentally Sensitive Development
Permit Area
(Dodd's Creek & Glaser-King Creeks)
48
OCP - FRESHLY PICKED FUTURE
VI. DEVELOPMENT PERMIT AREAS
d) land within an area designated under Section
488 (1)(d), (h), (i) or (j) [revitalization, energy
conservation,
water
conservation,
GHG
reduction], or a building or other structure on
that land, must not be altered.
This Plan designates eight Development Permit
Areas, using each of the designations except Local
Government Act Section 488(1)(c) (farming), (e)
(intensive residential) and (g) (resort region), as
follows:
DPA 1
Wildfire Protection Development
Permit Area
DPA 2
Environmentally Sensitive Development
Permit Area (Dodd's Creek and
Glaser-King Creeks)
DPA 3
Multi-family Residential Development
Permit Area
DPA 4
Downtown Core Development
Permit Area
DPA 5
General Commercial Development
Permit Area
DPA 6
Northwest Boulevard Local Area Plan
Development Permit Area
DPA 7
Highway Service Commercial
Development Permit Area
DPA 8 Industrial Development Permit Area
Where land is located in more than one Development
Permit Area, all of the applicable Development
Permit Area requirements must be met, but may be
combined into one application and one permit, at
the Town's discretion.
Applicable polices and regulations contained
within Town of Creston bylaws may be varied
or supplemented to achieve development in a
manner that best suits the guidelines of a particular
designation, or that is not otherwise inconsistent
with such guidelines.
Where development includes features related to
the provision of amenities, including but not limited
to publicly accessible areas and trails, conditions
may be included in a Development Permit to allow
construction of such amenities in advance of other
portions of development, provided construction of
these amenities can be achieved safely.
Development shall proceed expeditiously with
minimal disruption to, and maximum integration
with: adjacent land uses, buildings and other
structures. Therefore:
a) the sequence and timing of construction may
be further specified in conditions appropriate to
the purpose of the designation area(s), the type
of development, and the local area; and
b) conditions may be included in a Permit that the
property be fully and suitably landscaped and
properly maintained, and that the pedestrian
experience and street presence of the property
be maintained or enhanced before, during and
after construction.
Incomplete buildings and excavations are to
be avoided and therefore conditions (including
the provision of security) may be included in a
Development Permit for interim landscaping,
screening and other appropriate measures. These
measures include, but are not limited to: safety,
continuity with surrounding development and
maintenance or enhancement of the pedestrian
experience.
INTRODUCTION
49
1
Exceptions
1.1
Exception for Environmental & Hazard
DPA's (DPA 1 & 2)
Development Permits are not required for DPA 1 or
DPA 2 under the following conditions:
1.1.1 Alterations which are completely within
the interior of the building;
1.1.2 Additions to existing structures which have
an area of less than 10 sq.m. (107 sq.ft.);
1.1.3 Replacement or repair of existing exterior
cladding;
1.1.4 Replacement of existing doors, windows
or building trim;
1.1.5 Painting or minor repairs of an existing
building;
1.1.6 Temporary emergency procedures to
prevent, control or reduce flooding, erosion
or other immediate threats to life, public
or private property, provided the owner
promptly notifies the Town of the work
undertaken, the rationale and whether any
further work is anticipated;
1.1.7 Construction, repair and maintenance of
municipal works and services by the Town
of Creston or its authorized agents and
contractors;
1.1.8 Construction, repair and maintenance of
parks and recreational trails by the Town
of Creston or its authorized agents and
contractors;
1.1.9 Restoration
planting
of
vegetation,
provided native non-invasive vegetation is
used to enhance the natural environment
or provide habitat;
1.1.10 Removal of invasive non-native vegetation
provided that removal does not include the
use of pesticides, and the owner promptly
notifies the Town of the approach taken,
including: disposal; safety considerations;
replanting; erosion and sediment control;
and, follow-up monitoring requirements;
1.1.11 Agricultural uses on lands within the
Agricultural Land Reserve (ALR) under the
Farm Practice Protection (Right to Farm)
Act, subject to submission of a Farm Plan;
1.1.12 Municipally owned or managed properties
provided the property is used for public
purposes and is developed in accordance
with relevant Development Permit Area
Guidelines; or
1.1.13 For DPA 2 only, where less than 20% of
the Property is located within 15m of the
Natural Boundary or edge of channel of
any watercourse, and there is no proposed
development, including Land Alteration,
located within 60m of the Natural Boundary
or edge of channel of any watercourse.
1.2
Exception for Form and Character DPA's
(DPA 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, & 8)
Development Permits are not required for DPA's 3,
4, 5, 6, 7 & 8 under the following conditions:
1.2.1 Alterations which are completely within
the interior of the building;
1.2.2 Additions that have an area of less than 10
sq.m. (107 sq.ft.);
1.2.3 Installation or repair of overhead canopies
or other pedestrian weather protection
device if designed in accordance with the
applicable policies and bylaws of the Town
of Creston;
1.2.4 Replacement or repair of existing exterior
cladding based on the use of the following
materials:
i. Replacement of vinyl siding with fibre
cement siding;
ii. Replacement of wood or vinyl siding with
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VI. DEVELOPMENT PERMIT AREAS
EXCEPTIONS
50
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VI. DEVELOPMENT PERMIT AREAS
EXCEPTIONS
stucco; or
iii. Existing siding with identical material.
1.2.5 Replacement or repair of existing roofing
material with identical materials;
1.2.6 Replacement of existing doors, windows
or building trim;
1.2.7 Painting or minor repairs of an existing
building;
1.2.8 Temporary emergency procedures to
prevent, control or reduce flooding, erosion
or other immediate threats to life, public
or private property, provided the owner
promptly notifies the Town of the work
undertaken, the rationale and whether any
further work is anticipated;
1.2.9 Construction, repair and maintenance of
municipal works and services by the Town
of Creston or its authorized agents and
contractors;
1.2.10 Construction, repair and maintenance of
parks and recreational trails by the Town
of Creston or its authorized agents and
contractors;
1.2.11 Restoration planting of vegetation, provided
native non-invasive vegetation is used
to enhance the natural environment or
provide habitat;
1.2.12 Removal of invasive non-native vegetation
provided that removal does not include the
use of pesticides, and the owner promptly
notifies the Town of the approach taken,
including: disposal, safety considerations,
replanting, erosion and sediment control
and follow-up monitoring requirements; or
1.2.13 Municipally owned or managed properties
provided the property is used for public
purposes and is developed in accordance
with relevant Development Permit Area
Guidelines.
1.3 Exceptions for subdivision (DPA 3, 4, 5, 7, 8)
1.3.1 The subdivision of land, subdivision or the
purpose of lot consolidation, or lot line
adjustment, provided that it does not
create or otherwise involve a panhandle
lot. BL#1968
1.4 Exceptions for Land Alteration (DPA 2, 3, 4,
5, 6, 7, 8)
1.4.1 Land Alteration provided that it is
considered general yard maintenance
activities within an existing landscaped
area such as planting vegetation,
installation of rain gardens, and minor
soil disturbances that do not alter the
general grade of the land, or negatively
impact
drainage.
This
exemption
shall not apply where Land Alteration
is to be constructed or installed
concurrently with, or as an integral part
of, the construction of a new building.
BL#1968
1.5 Exceptions for single family development
(DPA 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8)
1.5.1 Construction of, or additions to, a single-
family dwelling, accessory dwelling unit
(attached or detached), or two-family
dwelling (duplex), where the totalnumber
of dwelling units in the development does
not exceed two. BL#1968
51
2
DPA 1 - Wildfire Protection
Development Permit Area
2.1
Area Designation
This area is designated in accordance with the
provisions of Section 488(1)(b) (protection of
development from hazardous conditions) of the
Local Government Act. All development within
those areas designated as Wildfire Protection DPA
on the Development Permit Map (Schedule B of this
Plan), shall be subject to approval for Development
Permit in accordance with the following Guidelines
(2.3 DPA 1 Guidelines).
2.2
Justification
The Town of Creston is located in a region of the
Province susceptible to both lightning and human
caused fires. Additionally, an ongoing Provincial
Mountain Pine Beetle outbreak has the potential
to significantly impact the forest fire hazard
adjacent to the community over the next twenty
years. The Town of Creston Community Wildfire
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VI. DEVELOPMENT PERMIT AREAS
DPA 1 - WILDFIRE PROTECTION
Tour of Wildfire Fuel Mitigation treatment area at
Forest Lawn Cemetery
Protection Plan (2006) has identified that overall,
the community is classified with a fire risk profile
described by a moderate to high fire probability
and high consequence based on the values at risk.
The wildfire risk is primarily located along the urban
interface with Arrow Mountain.
The objective of DPA 1 is to protect the property
located within that interface area and thus to protect
the Town from wildfire spreading from this fringe
area.
2.3
DPA 1 Guidelines
The applicant shall provide a site plan that locates
the proposed development relative to the adjacent
Forest Edge.
Development Permits issued in DPA 1 shall
be in accordance with the following Guidelines
and as supported in the FireSmart; Protecting
Your Community from Wildfire manual, Chapter
3 - Solutions and Mitigations:
2.3.1 The land within 10m of the Forest Edge will
be a fire-resistant area with the following
characteristics:
i. Landscaping
shall
be
fire
resistant
plantings, free of all materials that could
easily ignite. Wood and pine needle
mulches shall be avoided. A maintained
lawn is considered fire-resistant;
ii. Firewood storage areas are to be located,
and firewood is to be stored away from
houses; and
iii. Combustible fences are to be separated
from houses with non-combustible metal
gates.
2.3.2 All buildings within 10m of the Forest Edge
will be "fire-resistant" with the following
characteristics:
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VI. DEVELOPMENT PERMIT AREAS
i. Roofing material shall be fire resistant
or fire-retardant. Metal, asphalt, clay
and composite rubber are acceptable
materials. No wood shakes are permitted;
ii. Chimneys are to have spark arrestors;
iii. Gutters are to be screened to prevent
accumulation of combustible debris;
iv. Eaves and vents shall be screened with
maximum 3 mm wire mesh;
v. Exterior cladding shall be non-combustible
and include stucco, metal, brick, concrete,
fibre-cement and logs and/or heavy
timbers. No untreated wood or vinyl siding
shall be permitted;
vi. Windows are to be thermally broken,
double pane windows;
DPA 1 - WILDFIRE PROTECTION
Source: Partners in Protection - FireSmart; Protecting
Your Community From Wildfire manual
vii. Exterior doors shall be non-combustible;
and,
viii. Decks
shall
not
have
inaccessible,
unmaintained spaces below the deck
surface.
2.3.3 The land between 10m and 100m of
the Forest Edge will have the following
characteristics:
i. Coniferous trees are thinned so that
spacing of each tree is at least 3m apart
and pruned to remove branches within 2m
of the ground; and,
ii. Combustible materials are removed (such
as small trees that could be a "ladder"
for fire to move into the treetops) and the
ground is clear of woody debris. BL#1968
2.3.4 Any additional standards developed by
the Province in the future, may supersede
these Guidelines through legislation and
will be in addition to these Guidelines.
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3
DPA 2 - Environmentally Sensitive
Development Permit Area
(Dodd's Creek & Glaser-King Creeks)
3.1
Area Designation
This area is designated in accordance with the
provisions of Section 488(1)(a) (protection of
the natural environment) and (b) (protection of
development from hazardous conditions) of the
Local Government Act. All development within
those
areas
designated
as
Environmentally
Sensitive Lands on the Development Permit
Map (Schedule B of this Plan), shall be subject to
approval for Development Permit in accordance
with the following Guidelines.
3.2
Justification
Dodd's Creek runs westerly through the southern
portion of the Town. The Creek provides an important
drainage corridor for South Creston and the Town
of Creston's Master Drainage Plan has identified
Dodd's Creek as being at, or over, capacity in many
locations. Development occurring adjacent to this
Creek, if not carried out with care, can lead to poor
water quality, localized flooding, excessive erosion
and damage to infrastructure. Additionally, Dodd's
Creek is within the zone of influence for municipal
well water protection.
Note - See Map 4: Well Water Protection for greater
detail.
Glaser-King Creeks run westerly, then northerly
through the northern portion of the Town and provide
an important drainage corridor for North Creston.
The Town of Creston Master Drainage Plan has
identified areas of Glaser-King Creeks that are at, or
over, capacity. Development occurring adjacent to
these Creeks, if not carried out with care, can lead
to poor water quality, localized flooding, excessive
erosion and damage to infrastructure.
The objective of DPA 2 is to: provide long-term water
quality protection and volume control along Dodd's
Creek, Glaser-King Creeks and the capture zone
of the municipal wells; prevent flooding, control
erosion, reduce sedimentation, and recharge
groundwater systems; and, retain aquatic wildlife
habitat. Some Sections of the DPA are also identified
as a proposed recreation Greenway.
3.3
DPA 2 Guidelines
Development Permits issued in DPA 2 shall be in
accordance with the following Guidelines:
3.3.1 The Riparian Area adjacent to the natural
boundaries of Dodd's Creek and the edge
of channel for Glaser-King Creeks shall
remain free of development and in its
natural condition. Previously disturbed
Riparian Areas should be rehabilitated
and returned to their original condition, or
better.
3.3.2 Storm water shall be managed on-site for
water quality and quantity (equivalent to a
2 year, 24 hour storm event). Preparation
of a site specific storm water management
plan, shall be undertaken by a Qualified
Environmental Professional (QEP) or
related professional and will be subject to
appropriate Town, Provincial and Federal
agency review. Post development flows
3M
15M
RIPARIAN AND BUILDING
SETBACK
NATURAL
BOUNDARY
RIPARIAN
AREA
DPA 2- ENVIRONMENTALLY SENSITIVE
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VI. DEVELOPMENT PERMIT AREAS
shall not exceed pre-development flows
into watercourses and such requirement
shall be demonstrated in the site specific
storm water management plan.
3.3.3 A site specific storm water management
plan designed to manage sediment and
run-off during construction is required
for all developments. The storm water
management plan is required prior to
issuance of the Development Permit and
is subject to Town review and approval.
3.3.4 Riparian Setbacks and building setbacks
apply whether the watercourse is located
in either an open channel or within an
enclosed culvert. BL#1968
3.3.5 A site specific landscape plan prepared by
a registered Landscape Architect or related
professional shall be submitted as part of
the Development Permit application and
shall indicate all existing and proposed
features.
3.3.6 A site specific landscape plan shall be
submitted as part of the Development
Permit Application, within the Riparian
Area and other portions of the property
as applicable to the objectives of the
DPA. Particular attention shall be given
to vegetation or trees to be planted or
retained in order to control erosion, protect
watercourses, wetlands, or other sensitive
plant or animal habitats, or protect
significant or landmark trees. Landscape
plans shall incorporate trees, shrubs and
ground cover appropriate for the projected
future climate conditions and soil type.
The landscape plan shall be completed
by a registered Landscape Architect or
Environmental Professional. BL#1968
3.3.7 All buildings must be set back a minimum
of 15 metres from the Natural Boundary
or edge of channel of any watercourse,
whether or not the watercourse is located
in an open channel or enclosed culvert.
BL#1968
3.3.8 Where the 15m setback from the Natural
Boundary or edge of channel renders a
property undevelopable, a lesser setback
is permissible in accordance with and upon
provision of information from a registered
environmental professional that details
minimization of development impact,
and provides compensatory habitat and/
or natural environmental restoration or
enhancement of other portions of the
property, no less than double the area of
the intrusion.
3.3.9 Any non-porous surface treatment of a
parking lot located within 15 metres of
the Natural Boundary of any watercourse
or points of inflow or outflow of a culvert,
are required to utilize a rain garden, or
other similar technique, to control quantity
and quality of stormwater discharge to
the adjacent watercourse, unless an
alternative solution is proposed that
reasonably accomplishes the objective of
this policy to the satisfaction of the Town.
BL#1968
3.3.10 On-site oil, sediment and water separators
or rain gardens are required for parking
areas to minimize Point Source Pollution
from storm water runoff.
3.3.11 Alteration of the natural drainage of the
site, including total effective impervious
surface areas, shall be minimized.
3.3.12 Fuel storage and refueling facilities, whether
in commercial, industrial or residential use
areas, require special attention. Wherever
fuel is stored, preparation of site specific
fuel management plans complete with
spill
prevention
measures
and
spill
DPA 2- ENVIRONMENTALLY SENSITIVE
55
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VI. DEVELOPMENT PERMIT AREAS
containment facilities, shall be undertaken
by a Qualified Environmental Professional
(QEP) or related professional and subject
to appropriate Town, Provincial and
Federal agency regulations.
3.3.13 In accordance with Section 491(1)(d) of
the Local Government Act, the Town of
Creston may require the provision of works
to be constructed to preserve, protect,
restore or enhance natural watercourses
or other specified natural features of the
environment, in accordance with the above
Guidelines and required professional
reports.
3.3.14 In accordance with Section 491(1)(c)
of the Local Government Act, the Town
of Creston may require the dedication
of natural water courses in particularly
strategic or important locations, such as
adjacent to highway crossings, parkland
and linear trails, and other locations or
circumstances that further the numerous
statements and policies of the Plan.
3.3.15 Where qualified professionals advise
that the lands may, for the use intended,
be safely developed or altered only
in
accordance
with
conditions
or
recommendations, the Town may require a
covenant and indemnity registered under
section 219 of the Land Title Act in priority
to all charges of a financial nature.
3.4
Glaser-King Creeks Specific Guideline
3.4.1 Not withstanding 3.3.10 and 3.3.12 (above),
relocation of the previously channeled
Creeks may be permitted in order to
optimize development while:
i. Rehabilitating the 3m no-disturb Riparian
Area adjacent to the Creeks; and,
ii. Creating storm water retention areas
as per the Town of Creston Master
Drainage Plan, or as otherwise required or
recommended.
DPA 2- ENVIRONMENTALLY SENSITIVE
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4
DPA 3 - Multi-Family Residential
Development Permit Area
4.1
Area Designation
This area is designated primarily in accordance
with Section 488(1)(f) (establishment of objectives
for the form and character of commercial, industrial
or multi-family residential development) of the Local
Government Act, with supporting designations
under Section 488(1)(a) (environmental), (h)
(energy conservation), (i) (water conservation) and
(j) (GHG reduction). All development within those
areas designated as Multi-Family Residential DPA
on the Development Permit Map (Schedule C of this
Plan), shall be subject to approval for Development
Permit in accordance with the following Guidelines
(4.3 DPA 3 Guidelines).
4.2
Justification
Multi-family developments can have a significant
impact on residential neighborhoods and in areas
transitioning from lower density to higher density
housing. The objectives of DPA 3 are to achieve
good quality, aesthetically pleasing multi-family
residential development that is: appropriate and
compatible with the surrounding area; does not
compromise the natural environment; and, is
supportive of energy and water conservation and
GHG reductions. DPA 3 will support a variety of
housing options and densities, and meet the housing
needs of individuals and families at all stages of life.
4.3
DPA 3 Guidelines
Development Permits issued in DPA 3 shall be in
accordance with the following guidelines:
4.3.1 Siting and Orientation of Buildings
i. Buildings shall be oriented to face the
street.
ii. Corner buildings shall be oriented to face
both adjacent streets.
iii. Buildings shall be located in close
proximity to the front property line in
order to encourage a pedestrian-friendly
orientation.
iv. Clustering and other creative spatial
arrangements to create usable common
open areas and facilities are encouraged.
4.3.2 Architecture
i. Encourage building design to address
the functional needs of persons with
disabilities.
ii. Offset
window
placement
between
buildings facing each other to maintain
privacy in residential units.
iii. Design
multi-family
residential
development to be compatible with
adjacent development.
iv. Building façades and roof-lines shall
be articulated or detailed in a way that
distinguishes individual units, both ground
floor and upper level units.
v. Long expanses of blank, straight, façades
are not permitted.
vi. Sloping roof-lines are encouraged.
vii. Three and four storey developments are
required to set back the third and fourth
storeys from roadways and lower density
residential areas. These setbacks allow
for usable outdoor space while retaining a
sense of privacy for adjacent lower density
residential uses.
viii. Doorway entrances and windows shall
be highlighted through façade articulation
including roofline accents, awnings, or the
use of other architectural features.
ix. Each residential unit must include usable
private outdoor space in the form of
a balcony, yard or patio space (or a
combination of these), which reflects a
DPA 3 - MULTI-FAMILY RESIDENTIAL
57
and ground cover should be appropriate
for the projected future climate conditions
and soil type. Particular attention should
be paid to the retention or planting of
vegetation or trees to control erosion,
protect watercourses, wetlands, or other
sensitive plant or animal habitats, or
protect significant or landmark trees.
BL#1968
iv. Screening, consisting of a minimum 1.8m
high solid fence, solid hedge or other
plantings (or a combination of fencing and
plantings), shall be located along the rear
and side property lines.
v. Plantings and planting areas shall:
a. screen
abutting
single
family
residential buildings from multi-family
development andassociated parking
areas with a minimum 3 metres wide
vegetated buffer containingmature
plantings along the entire property
line, excepting areas of ingress and
egress; and, BL#1968
b. screen
abutting
single
family
residential buildings from multi-family
development and associated parking
areas where they are separated by
a street or lane with a minimum 3m
vegetated buffer containing mature
plantings along the entire property
line, excepting areas of ingress and
egress; BL#1968
vi. Plantings and planting areas shall also be
located:
a. between on or offsite buildings and
parking areas; BL#1968
b. along access routes;
c. to define or frame pathways, lanes
and entrances;
d. to shade buildings and outdoor
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VI. DEVELOPMENT PERMIT AREAS
minimum of 10% of the floor area of the
unit and in no case shall be less than 5.6
m2 (60 sf).
x. Building design should result in no net
increase in post-development overland
stormwater flows. Additional overland
flow produced from the building must
be managed on-site. The use of rain
gardens to promote infiltration and water
purification are strongly encouraged.
For properties where there is adequate
municipal
stormwater
infrastructure
capacity, the Town may permit a portion of
additional overland flow to be directed to
municipal storm infrastructure. BL#1968
4.3.3 Exterior Building Treatments
i. The use of local materials is strongly
encouraged, including recycled materials
where appropriate.
ii. Large surface areas of concrete, concrete
blocks and similar materials are not
permitted.
iii. The use of vinyl siding as an exterior
building treatment is prohibited. BL#1968
4.3.4 Landscaping
i. Use landscape features to define the
spaces that are public from those that are
private (i.e. short fences, shrubs, grade
changes and short retaining walls).
ii. A site specific landscape plan prepared by
a registered Landscape Architect or related
professional shall be submitted, as part
of the Development Permit application.
The landscape plan shall indicate all
existing and proposed features. The
landscape plan shall include a plan for on-
site stormwater retention and infiltration.
BL#1968
iii. Healthy, mature trees and vegetation shall
be retained where possible. Trees, shrubs
DPA 3 - MULTI-FAMILY RESIDENTIAL
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VI. DEVELOPMENT PERMIT AREAS
DPA 3 - MULTI-FAMILY RESIDENTIAL
spaces; BL#1968
e. to slow runoff and induce on-site
infiltration
of
stormwater;
and,
BL#1968
f.
provide street trees along the frontage
road. BL#1968
4.3.5 Usable Common Open Space
i. Multi-Family
Residential
development
shall include 10 m2 of Usable Common
Open Space per dwelling unit with a
minimum dimension of 4m in any direction.
ii. Usable Common Open Space shall be:
a. Conveniently located so as to be
accessible at all times to the occupants
of the development and contained
entirely within the lot boundaries.
Required building setback areas
DPA 3
Multifamily Residential
Building faces street
Usable common open space
Parking to rear or side
Pedestrian access from
sidewalk/street and parking
Landscape screening at perimeter
shall not count towards the Usable
Common Open Space requirements.
b. Separated from ground floor windows,
streets, service areas and parking
areas with landscaping and/or low-
level fencing to enhance safety and
privacy.
c. Orientated in a manner that will make
the best practical use of available sun
and other climatic advantages.
iii. Indoor common recreational, leisure and
social spaces may be considered for up
to 25% of the required Usable Common
Open Space with approval from the Town.
4.3.6 Parking and Vehicular Access
i. Parking areas must not be located between
streets and the front of the building.
ii. Parking areas must be broken up with tree
plantings and landscaping.
59
DPA 3 - MULTI-FAMILY RESIDENTIAL
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VI. DEVELOPMENT PERMIT AREAS
iii. The use of permeable paving materials is
strongly encouraged.
iv. On-site
retention
and
infiltration
of
stormwater is required, where achievable.
Parking area development should result
in no net increase in post-development
overland stormwater flows. Additional
overland flow produced from parking
area development must be managed on-
site. The use of rain gardens to promote
infiltration and water purification are
strongly encouraged. For properties where
there is adequate municipal stormwater
infrastructure capacity, the Town may
permit a portion of additional overland
flow to be directed to municipal storm
infrastructure. BL#1968
v. Provision shall be made for the parking of
motorized scooters and bicycles.
vi. All parking and access routes shall be
adequately illuminated utilizing Dark Sky
Compliant Lighting Guidelines.
4.3.7 Pedestrian Access
i. Safe and efficient pedestrian access within
the development shall be a priority.
ii. Defined
pathways
shall
facilitate
pedestrian access from parking areas to
all entrances and adjacent public streets.
iii. All walkways shall be designed for
Universal Accessibility.
iv. The hard surfacing of walkways and
patios should result in no net increase in
postdevelopment overland stormwater
flows. Additional overland flow produced
from pedestrian infrastructure development
must be managed on-site. The use of rain
gardens to promote infiltration and water
purification are strongly encouraged.
For properties where there is adequate
municipal
stormwater
infrastructure
capacity, the Town may permit a portion of
additional overland flow to be directed to
municipal storm infrastructure. BL#1968
v. All walkways are required to be adequately
illuminated utilizing Dark Sky Compliant
Lighting Guidelines.
4.3.8 Crime Prevention and Security
i. Design shall discourage crime by:
a. Reducing concealed areas;
b. Providing lighting to minimize dark
spaces; and,
c. Providing street addresses that are
easily identifiable.
4.3.9 Signs
i. All signs must meet the requirements
of the Town of Creston Sign Bylaw as
amended from time to time.
4.4
Exception
A Development Permit within DPA 3 is not required
under the following circumstances:
i. Exceptions as outlined on pg. 47 - 48 of
this Plan.
ii. Residential
Development
within
the
Downtown Core Development Permit
Area, as that is addressed in DPA 4.
iii. Residential
development
within
the
Northwest Boulevard Local Area Plan
DPA, as that is addressed in DPA 6.
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5
DPA 4 - Downtown Core Development
Permit Area
5.1
Area Designation
This area is designated primarily in accordance with
the provisions of Section 488(1)(d) (revitalization of
an area in which commercial use is permitted) of the
Local Government Act, with supporting designations
under Section 488(1)(a) (environmental), (f) (form
and character), (h) (energy conservation), (i)
(water conservation) and (j) (GHG reduction). All
development within those areas designated as
Downtown Core DPA on the Development Permit
Map (Schedule C of this Plan), shall be subject to
approval for Development Permit in accordance with
the following Guidelines (5.3 DPA 4 Guidelines).
5.2
Justification
The Downtown Core is the primary social and
economic hub for the Creston Valley. This heritage
area is characterized by a broad range of business
and shopping options, entertainment choices,
restaurants, and a live/work component. The
Downtown Core is also the historic and cultural
centre for the Creston Valley. In addition, treatment
of form and character for incomplete developments
prompts measures to ensure a revitalized core is
cohesive and comprehensive.
The objectives of DPA 4 are to:
i.
ensure
new
development
in
the
Downtown Core presents a positive
image that respects the existing cultural
and heritage attributes of the built
environment;
ii. address
energy
conservation
and
reduction of GHG emissions;
iii. promote
a
viable
marketable
environment that is attractive to the
public and fosters community pride;
DPA 4 - DOWNTOWN CORE
iv. to ensure that development provides a
visually pleasing aesthetic;
v. respect the form and character of
surrounding development; and,
vi. improve the pedestrian experience in
the Downtown Area.
5.3
DPA 4 Guidelines
Development Permits issued in DPA 4 shall be in
accordance with the following Guidelines:
5.3.1 Siting and Orientation of Buildings
i. Buildings must be oriented to face the
street.
ii. Corner buildings must be oriented to face
both adjacent streets.
iii. Buildings must be located with no setback
from the front property line except where
setbacks are used to create commercial
patio spaces, public areas, and sidewalks.
iv. Building entrances must be accessed
directly from the public sidewalk (or other
public area), without crossing any parking
areas. When entrances are located on the
side of the building, a pathway must lead
from the sidewalk directly to the entrance.
v. Where
possible,
buildings
shall
be
oriented to maximize solar gain and the
penetration of natural light into interior
spaces, particularly living spaces.
5.3.2 Architecture
i. Buildings must include some form of
pedestrian weather protection over the
front entry. BL#1968
ii. Building façades and roof-lines shall
be articulated or detailed in a way that
distinguishes individual units on both
ground floor and upper level units.
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VI. DEVELOPMENT PERMIT AREAS
ii. Exterior finishes and treatments shall
reflect the cultural and heritage character
of Creston's Downtown Area, even when
utilizing new materials.
iii. Large surface areas of concrete, concrete
blocks and similar materials are not
permitted.
iv. The use of vinyl siding as an exterior
building treatment is not permitted.
v. The use of highly reflective or mirrored
glass windows is not permitted.
5.3.4 Landscaping
i. A site specific landscape plan prepared
by a registered Landscape Architect or
related professional shall be submitted,
as part of the Development Permit
application where ground-level public or
private space exists in the development
plan. The landscape plan shall indicate
all existing and proposed features. The
landscape plan shall include a plan for on-
site stormwater retention and infiltration,
where achievable. BL#1968
ii. Plantings and planting areas shall:
a. provide screening and privacy between
residential units; BL#1968
b. screen abutting residential buildings
from commercial uses where they are
not separated by a street or a lane;
BL#1968
c. screen parking areas from the street;
d. screen waste receptacles, dumpsters,
and building mechanicals from the
street;
e. be used as a treatment to break up
large building façades;
f. define
or
frame
paths,
streets,
entrances;
DPA 4 - DOWNTOWN CORE
iii. Commercial buildings shall include large
display windows. BL#1968
iv. Buildings that are taller than two storeys
shall include a stepped-back façade at the
3rd storey, or inset balconies on the 3rd
storey.
v. Buildings that are complimentary to the
historic architectural styles of Creston are
strongly encouraged.
vi. Each residential unit must include usable
private outdoor space in the form of a
balcony or patio which reflects a minimum
of 10% of the floor area of the unit and in
no case shall be less than 5.6 m2 (60 sf).
vii. All buildings and site development must
incorporate Universal Design Guidelines.
viii. Building design should result in no net
increase in post-development overland
stormwater flows. Additional overland
flow produced from the building must
be managed on-site. The use of rain
gardens to promote infiltration and water
purification are strongly encouraged.
For properties where there is adequate
municipal
stormwater
infrastructure
capacity, the Town may permit a portion of
additional overland flow to be directed to
municipal storm infrastructure. BL#1968
ix. For buildings with a residential use, window
placement between buildings facing each
other should be offset to maintain privacy
in residential units. BL#1968
x. Design multi-family residential and mixed-
use development to be compatible with
adjacent development. BL#1968
5.3.3 Exterior Building Treatments
i. The use of local materials is strongly
encouraged, including recycled materials
where appropriate.
62
OCP - FRESHLY PICKED FUTURE
VI. DEVELOPMENT PERMIT AREAS
g. shade buildings and outdoor spaces;
BL#1968
h. slow
runoff
and
facilitate
on-site
infiltration of stormwater; and, BL#1968
i. provide street trees along the frontage
road. BL#1968
j. Healthy, mature trees and vegetation
shall be retained where possible. Trees,
shrubs and ground cover should be
appropriate for the projected future
climate
conditions
and
soil
type.
BL#1968
5.3.5 Parking and Vehicular Access
i. Parking areas must not be located between
streets and the front of the building.
ii. Parking areas shall be broken up with tree
plantings and landscaping.
iii. The hard surfacing of walkways and
patios should result in no net increase in
postdevelopment overland stormwater
flows. Additional overland flow produced
from pedestrian infrastructure development
must be managed on-site. The use of rain
gardens to promote infiltration and water
purification are strongly encouraged.
For properties where there is adequate
municipal
stormwater
infrastructure
capacity, the Town may permit a portion of
additional overland flow to be directed to
municipal storm infrastructure. BL#1968
iv. In areas where required on-site parking
is not feasible consideration for off-site
parking, or the purchase of required
parking spaces from the Town, shall be
given in accordance with established
provisions.
v. On-site
retention
and
infiltration
of
stormwater is required where achievable.
vi. Parking for residential uses shall be
separated from parking for commercial
uses where achievable.
vii. Provision shall be made for the parking
and storage of motorized scooters and
bicycles for residents and visitors.
viii. All parking and access routes shall be
adequately illuminated utilizing Dark Sky
Compliant Lighting Guidelines.
5.3.6 Pedestrian Access
i. Provide well defined pedestrian access
from the adjacent street/sidewalk and/or
parking areas to all building entrances.
ii. All walkways shall be designed for
Universal Accessibility.
iii. The hard surfacing of walkways and
patios should result in no net increase in
postdevelopment overland stormwater
flows. Additional overland flow produced
from pedestrian infrastructure development
must be managed on-site. The use of rain
gardens to promote infiltration and water
purification are strongly encouraged.
For properties where there is adequate
municipal
stormwater
infrastructure
capacity, the Town may permit a portion of
additional overland flow to be directed to
municipal storm infrastructure. BL#1968
iv. All parking and access routes shall be
adequately illuminated utilizing Dark Sky
Compliant Lighting Guidelines.
5.3.7 Signs
i. All signs shall be in accordance with the
requirements of the Town of Creston Sign
Bylaw as amended from time to time.
ii. Installation of projecting and suspended
signs is strongly encouraged.
DPA 4 - DOWNTOWN CORE
63
OCP - FRESHLY PICKED FUTURE
VI. DEVELOPMENT PERMIT AREAS
6
DPA 5 - General Commercial
Development Permit Area
6.1
Area Designation
In accordance with the provisions of Section 488(1)
(d) (revitalization of an area in which a commercial
use is permitted) and (f) (establishment of objectives
for the form and character of commercial, industrial
or multi-family residential development) of the Local
Government Act, with supporting designations
under Section 488(1)(a) (environmental), (h)
(energy conservation), (i) (water conservation) and
(j) (GHG reduction). All development within those
areas designated as General Commercial DPA on
the Development Permit Map (Schedule C of this
Plan), shall be subject to approval for Development
Permit in accordance with the following Guidelines
(6.3 DPA 5 Guidelines).
6.2
Justification
Historically, General Commercial properties in
Creston have evolved without any substantial
guidelines
for
development
or
aesthetic
considerations, which could attract or encourage
consumers to stop and shop. Navigating parking
areas in vehicles or on foot is sometimes difficult
and uncomfortable. In addition, a lack of effective
screening and buffering has produced conflicts with
surrounding land uses.
The objectives of DPA 5 are to:
i.
revitalize
General
Commercial
development to present a positive
image that respects the existing cultural
and heritage attributes of the built
environment;
ii. address
energy
conservation
and
reduction of GHG emissions;
iii. require the retention and infiltration of
stormwater on-site where achievable;
iv. promote
a
viable
marketable
environment that is attractive to the
public and fosters community pride;
v. to ensure that development provides a
visually pleasing aesthetic;
vi. respect the form and character of
surrounding development;
vii. improve the pedestrian experience in
General Commercial developments;
and,
viii. minimize
any
negative
impact
of
commercial development on adjacent
residential areas.
6.3
DPA 5 Guidelines
Development Permits issued in DPA 5 shall be in
accordance with the following Guidelines:
6.3.1 Siting and Orientation of Buildings
i. Buildings must be oriented to face the
street.
ii. Corner buildings must be oriented to face
both adjacent streets.
iii. Building entrances must be accessed
directly from the public sidewalk (existing
or future), with a pathway that leads from
the sidewalk to the entrance.
iv. Long expanses of blank, straight façades
are not permitted.
6.3.2 Architecture
i. Buildings shall reflect Creston's small town
character. BL#1968
ii. Buildings must include some form of
pedestrian weather protection over the
front entry. BL#1968
iii. Building façades and roof-lines shall
be articulated or detailed in a way that
distinguishes individual units, both ground
floor and upper level units.
DPA 5 - GENERAL COMMERCIAL
64
OCP - FRESHLY PICKED FUTURE
VI. DEVELOPMENT PERMIT AREAS
DPA 5 - GENERAL COMMERCIAL
iv. All commercial buildings shall include
large display windows. BL#1968
v. All buildings and site design must
incorporate Universal Design Guidelines.
vi. Building design should result in no net
increase in post-development overland
stormwater flows. Additional overland
flow produced from the building must
be managed on-site. The use of rain
gardens to promote infiltration and water
purification are strongly encouraged.
For properties where there is adequate
stormwater infrastructure capacity, the
Town may permit a portion of additional
overland flow to be directed to storm
infrastructure. BL#1968
6.3.3 Exterior Building Treatments
i. The use of local materials is strongly
encouraged, including recycled materials
where appropriate.
ii. Large surface areas of concrete, concrete
blocks and similar materials are not
permitted.
iii. The use of vinyl siding as an exterior
building treatment is prohibited. BL#1968
iv. The use of highly reflective or mirrored
glass windows is not permitted.
6.3.4 Landscaping
i. A site specific landscape plan prepared by
a registered Landscape Architect or related
professional shall be submitted, as part
of the Development Permit application.
The landscape plan shall indicate all
existing and proposed features. The
landscape plan shall include a plan for on-
site stormwater retention and infiltration,
where achievable. BL#1968
ii. Healthy, mature trees and vegetation shall
be retained where possible. Trees, shrubs
and ground cover should be appropriate
for the projected future climate conditions
and soil type. BL#1968
iii. Plantings and planting areas shall:
a. screen abutting residential buildings
from
commercial
buildings
and
associated parking areas where
they are not separated by a street
or a lane with a vegetated buffer
containing mature plantings along
the entire property line excepting
areas of ingress and egress;
b. screen abutting residential buildings
from
commercial
buildings
and
associated parking areas that are
separated by a street or lane with
a minimum 3m vegetated buffer
containing mature plantings along the
entire property line, excepting areas
of ingress and egress; BL#1968
c. screen commercial buildings and
65
DPA 5 - GENERAL COMMERCIAL
OCP - FRESHLY PICKED FUTURE
VI. DEVELOPMENT PERMIT AREAS
associated
parking
areas
from
the edge of the road right-of-way
with a minimum 3 metres wide
vegetated buffer containing mature
plantings along the entire property
line, excepting areas of ingress and
egress; BL#1968
d. screen storage areas such as waste
receptacles, dumpsters, and building
mechanicals from the street;
e. be used as a treatment to break up
large building façades;
f. define or frame paths, streets,
entrances;
g. shade buildings and outdoor spaces;
h. slow runoff and facilitate on-site
infiltration of stormwater;
i. provide street trees along the frontage
road; and,
j. provide planting in other open space
areas not needed for parking, access
roads or walkways.
6.3.5 Parking and Vehicular Access
i. Parking areas must not be located between
streets and the front of the building.
ii. Parking areas shall be broken up with tree
plantings and landscaping.
iii. The use of permeable paving materials is
strongly encouraged.
iv. On-site
retention
and
infiltration
of
stormwater is required, where achievable.
Parking area development should result
in no net increase in post-development
overland stormwater flows. Additional
overland flow produced from parking
area development must be managed on-
site. The use of rain gardens to promote
infiltration and water purification are
strongly encouraged. For properties where
there is adequate municipal stormwater
infrastructure capacity, the Town may
permit a portion of additional overland
flow to be directed to municipal storm
infrastructure.
v. Provision shall be made for the parking of
motorized scooters and bicycles.
vi. All parking and access routes shall be
adequately illuminated utilizing Dark Sky
Compliant Lighting Guidelines.
6.3.6 Pedestrian Access
i. Provide well defined pedestrian access
from the adjacent street/sidewalk and/or
parking areas to all building entrances.
ii. Defined
pathways
shall
facilitate
pedestrian access from parking areas to
all entrances and adjacent public streets.
iii. All walkways shall be designed for
Universal Accessibility.
iv. The hard surfacing of walkways and patios
should result in no net increase in post
development overland stormwater flows.
Additional overland flow produced from
pedestrian
infrastructure
development
must be managed on-site. The use of rain
gardens to promote infiltration and water
purification are strongly encouraged.
For properties where there is adequate
municipal
stormwater
infrastructure
capacity, the Town may permit a portion of
additional overland flow to be directed to
municipal storm infrastructure. BL#1968
v. All parking and access routes shall be
adequately illuminated utilizing Dark Sky
Compliant Lighting Guidelines.
6.3.7 Signs
i. All signs must meet the requirements
of the Town of Creston Sign Bylaw as
amended from time to time.
66
OCP - FRESHLY PICKED FUTURE
VI. DEVELOPMENT PERMIT AREAS
'Mixed Use', 'Residential', 'Institutional' and 'Park
/ Open Space' within the Northwest Boulevard
Local Area Plan DPA on the Development Permit
Map (Schedule C of this Plan), shall be subject to
approval for Development Permit in accordance
with the following Guidelines.
7.2
Justification
These areas provide the first impression of the
municipality to visitors and residents alike. The
objectives of the guidelines are to ensure that
development provides a visually pleasing entrance
into the Town and as outlined in the Northwest
7
DPA 6 - Northwest Boulevard Local
Area Plan Development Permit Area
7.1
Area Designation
In accordance with the provisions of Section 488(1)
(d) (revitalization of an area in which a commercial
use is permitted) and (f) (establishment of objectives
for the form and character of commercial, industrial
or multi-family residential development) of the Local
Government Act, with supporting designations under
Section 488(1)(a) (environmental), (h) (energy
conservation), (i) (water conservation) and (j) (GHG
reduction). All areas designated 'Commercial',
Source: Northwest Boulevard Local Area Plan
DPA 6 - NORTHWEST BOULEVARD LAP
67
OCP - FRESHLY PICKED FUTURE
VI. DEVELOPMENT PERMIT AREAS
Boulevard Local Area Plan, Directives and
Objectives, page 2:
"In August of 2012, the Town of Creston engaged a
Planning Team to formulate a Local Area Plan (LAP)
for the 25 acre parcel located at the intersection of
Northwest Boulevard and Devon Street in northern
Creston. The request was motivated by a complex
land ownership arrangement consisting of 19
properties, a low land use density, an appetite for
change, and uncertainty as to what land uses would
be appropriate for the parcel, how they should be
distributed, and how they should be accessed. In
addition, there was concern about the relationship of
the parcel and its future land uses to the Town as a
whole, to neighbouring land uses, and to Northwest
Boulevard, Devon Street, and the proposed Glaser
Drive.
There were additional concerns expressed by Town
officials. In particular, the Team was asked to give
serious attention to citizen participation in building
the Plan, taking the participatory process beyond
the conventional plan review and commentary
exercise, and extending responsibility to citizen
participants to actually take up a pen and mark his/
her ideas on the map about where various land
uses and related facilities and activities should
go. Further, Town officials expressed concern that
the Plan should give consideration to the practical
aspects of land development and offer ideas on a
strategy for implementing the proposed land uses
in the context of the economic environment of the
Creston community.
In addition to responding to the above concerns,
the Planning Team brought to the planning process
several objectives essential to building a LAP
in the Town of Creston. First, that the Plan be
resilient, that is, that it be flexible and lend itself to
the inevitable and often unpredictable economic,
environmental, and social changes that are sure to
emerge in the modern world. Second, that the Plan
DPA 6 - NORTHWEST BOULEVARD LAP
be represented by more than colored patches on
a map, but also have a design component, that is,
graphics illustrating what proposed land uses might
actually look like on the ground. Third, that the
Plan accurately incorporate small town character
in terms of the mix of the land uses proposed, the
scale at which they are designed, and the values
expressed by the citizens. Fourth, that the Plan
honour sustainability principles and guidelines,
as outlined in the Cultivating Creston Integrated
Community Sustainability Plan, thereby moving the
Town of Creston toward building a more resilient,
durable, and livable community."
In addition, the objective of DPA 6 is to revitalize
the subject properties to promote a viable and
marketable
environment
that:
ensures
that
development provides a visually pleasing aesthetic;
and, mitigates or reduces the potential land use
conflicts with adjacent land uses.
7.3
DPA 6 Guidelines
Development Permits issued in DPA 6 shall be in
accordance with the Guidelines as set out in the
Northwest Boulevard Local Area Plan, Part Three
- Planning and Design Guidelines, pages 11 to 25
inclusive.
The Northwest Boulevard Local Area Plan can be
found here: https://www.creston.ca/sites/default/
files/2023-07/NWB%20LAP-1845.pdf
68
VI. DEVELOPMENT PERMIT AREAS
8
DPA 7 - Highway Service Commercial
Development Permit Area
8.1
Area Designation
In accordance with the provisions of Section 488(1)
(d) (revitalization of an area in which a commercial
use is permitted) and (f) (establishment of objectives
for the form and character of commercial, industrial
or multi-family residential development) of the Local
Government Act, with supporting designations under
Section 488(1)(a) (environmental), (h) (energy
conservation), (i) (water conservation) and (j) (GHG
reduction). All development within those areas
designated as Highway Service Commercial DPA
on the Development Permit Map (Schedule C of this
Plan), shall be subject to approval for Development
Permit in accordance with the following Guidelines
(8.3 DPA 7 Guidelines).
8.2
Justification
Currently, land uses adjacent to Highway 3 are
typical of many commercial "strips" found in similar
sized communities, with older, well established
buildings mixed with newer ones. Historically, this
area had developed without any substantial design
guidelines and has resulted in a commercial district
that might not provide a comfortable or aesthetically
pleasing area in which to stop and shop. Parking,
access, landscaping and screening will enhance
opportunities reduce functional restrictions, and
promote overall revitalization of the area.
The objectives of DPA 7 are to:
i.
revitalize Highway Service Commercial
areas to present a positive image
that respects the existing cultural
and heritage attributes of the built
environment;
ii. address
energy
conservation
and
reduction of GHG emissions;
iii. require the retention and infiltration of
stormwater on-site where achievable;
iv. promote
a
viable
marketable
environment that is attractive to the
public and fosters community pride;
v. to ensure that development provides a
visually pleasing aesthetic;
vi. respect the form and character of
surrounding development;
vii. improve the pedestrian experience
in
Highway
Service
Commercial
developments; and,
viii. minimize
any
negative
impact
of
commercial development on adjacent
residential areas.
8.3
DPA 7 Guidelines
Development Permits issued in DPA 7 shall be in
accordance with the following guidelines:
8.3.1 Siting and Orientation of Buildings
i. Buildings must be oriented to face the
street.
ii. Corner buildings must be oriented to face
both adjacent streets.
iii. Buildings
intended
to
be
regularly
accessed by the public, must be located
in close proximity to the front property
line to encourage a pedestrian-friendly
orientation. BL#1968
iv. Locate drive-thru facilities internally and
not between building faces and public
streets.
v. Locate loading bays, outdoor storage and
garbage enclosure areas behind buildings
and separated from visitor parking areas,
where size of property permits.
vi. Make
loading
areas
and
facilities
accessible to service vehicles without
interfering with pedestrian circulation.
vii. All buildings and site design must
OCP - FRESHLY PICKED FUTURE
DPA 7 - HIGHWAY SERVICE COMMERCIAL
69
VI. DEVELOPMENT PERMIT AREAS
incorporate Universal Design Guidelines.
8.3.2 Architecture
i. Buildings shall reflect Creston's small town
character. BL#1968
ii. Buildings must include some form of
pedestrian weather protection over the
front entry.
iii. Provision
of
site
amenities
near
main entrances, such as benches, is
encouraged.
iv. Create architectural interest by varying
building materials, colours, roof-lines, and
other architectural elements.
v. Monolithic structures and long expanses
of straight walls are not permitted.
vi. Large buildings shall be designed to
create the impression of smaller units
by encouraging façade relief and variety
between sections.
vii. All storefronts shall include large display
windows.
viii. Long expanses of blank, straight façades
are not permitted.
ix. All buildings and site design must
incorporate Universal Design Guidelines.
x. Building design should result in no net
increase in post-development overland
stormwater flows. Additional overland
flow produced from the building must be
managed on-site. The use of rain gardens
to promote infiltration and water purification
are strongly encouraged. BL#1968
8.3.3 Exterior Building Treatments
i. The use of local materials is strongly
encouraged, including recycled materials,
where appropriate.
ii. Large surface areas of concrete, concrete
blocks and similar materials are not
permitted.
iii. The use of vinyl siding as an exterior
building treatment is prohibited. BL#1968
iv. The use of highly reflective or mirrored
glass windows is not permitted.
8.3.4 Landscaping
i. A site specific landscape plan prepared by
a registered Landscape Architect or related
professional shall be submitted, as part
of the Development Permit application.
The landscape plan shall indicate all
existing and proposed features. The
landscape plan shall include a plan for on-
site stormwater retention and infiltration.
BL#1968
ii. Healthy, mature trees and vegetation shall
be retained where possible. Trees, shrubs
and ground cover should be appropriate
for the projected future climate conditions
and soil type. Particular attention should
be paid to the retention or planning of
vegetation or trees to control erosion,
protect watercourses, wetlands, or other
sensitive plant or animal habitats, or
protect significant or landmark trees.
BL#1968
OCP - FRESHLY PICKED FUTURE
DPA 7 - HIGHWAY SERVICE COMMERCIAL
70
VI. DEVELOPMENT PERMIT AREAS
iii. Plantings and planting areas shall:
a. screen abutting residential buildings
from
commercial
buildings
and
associated parking areas where
they are not separated by a street
or a lane with a vegetated buffer
containing mature plantings along
the entire property line excepting
areas of ingress and egress;
b. screen abutting residential buildings
from
commercial
buildings
and
associated parking areas that are
separated by a street or lane with
a minimum 3m vegetated buffer
containing mature plantings along the
entire property line, excepting areas
of ingress and egress; BL#1968
c. screen commercial buildings and
associated
parking
areas
from
the edge of the road right-of-way
with a minimum 3 metres wide
vegetated buffer containing mature
plantings along the entire property
line, excepting areas of ingress and
egress; BL#1968
d. screen storage areas such as waste
receptacles, dumpsters, and building
mechanicals from the street;
e. be used as a treatment to break up
large building façades;
f. define or frame paths, streets,
entrances;
g. shade buildings and outdoor spaces;
h. slow runoff and facilitate on-site
infiltration of stormwater;
i. provide street trees along the frontage
road; and,
j. provide planting in other open space
areas not needed for parking, access
roads or walkways.
OCP - FRESHLY PICKED FUTURE
8.3.5 Parking and Vehicular Access
i. Parking areas must not be located between
streets and the front of the building.
ii. Parking areas shall be broken up with tree
plantings and landscaping.
iii. The use of permeable paving materials is
strongly encouraged.
iv. Parking area development should result
in no net increase in post-development
overland stormwater flows. Additional
overland flow produced from parking
area development must be managed on-
site. The use of rain gardens to promote
infiltration and water purification are
strongly encouraged. BL#1968
v. Provision shall be made for the parking of
motorized scooters and bicycles.
vi. All parking and access routes shall be
adequately illuminated utilizing Dark Sky
Compliant Lighting Guidelines.
8.3.6 Pedestrian Access
i. Provide well defined pedestrian access
from the adjacent street/sidewalk and/or
parking areas to all building entrances.
ii. All walkways shall be designed for
Universal Accessibility.
iii. The hard surfacing of walkways and
patios should result in no net increase in
postdevelopment overland stormwater
flows. Additional overland flow produced
from pedestrian infrastructure development
must be managed on-site. The use of rain
gardens to promote infiltration and water
purification are strongly encouraged.
BL#1968
8.3.7 Signs
i. All signs must meet the requirements
of the Town of Creston Sign Bylaw as
amended from time to time.
DPA 7 - HIGHWAY SERVICE COMMERCIAL
71
DPA 8 Industrial
Building faces street
Parking to rear or side
Pedestrian access from parking
Landscape screening at perimeter
VI. DEVELOPMENT PERMIT AREAS
DPA 8 - INDUSTRIAL
9
DPA 8 - Industrial DPA
9.1
Area Designation
In accordance with the provisions of Section
488(1)(f) (establishment of objectives for the
form and character of commercial, industrial or
multi-family residential development) of the Local
Government Act, with supporting designations
under Section 488(1)(a) (environmental), (h)
(energy conservation), (i) (water conservation)
and (j) (GHG reduction). All development within
those areas designated as Industrial DPA on the
Development Permit Map (Schedule C of this Plan)
shall be subject to approval for Development Permit
in accordance with the following Guidelines (9.3
DPA 8 Guidelines).
9.2
Justification
The Town of Creston has limited Industrial lands
and much of it is located adjacent to conflicting non-
industrial uses such as residential and commercial
OCP - FRESHLY PICKED FUTURE
properties. Due to lack of developed access,
many current Industrially designated lands are
underutilized, or not utilized at all.
In addition the majority of undeveloped Industrial
lands are located adjacent to the future Glaser Drive
- a multi-use transportation corridor with a strong
pedestrian presence.
The objective of DPA 8 is to improve the aesthetic
quality of Industrial areas and to promote a viable
and marketable environment that: is attractive to
the public; fosters community pride; ensures that
development provides a visually pleasing aesthetic;
and, mitigates or reduces the potential land use
conflicts with adjacent land uses.
The quality of the pedestrian experience along future
Glaser Drive will be determined by the building and
site design of adjacent Industrial lands.
72
9.3
DPA 8 Guidelines
Development Permits issued in DPA 8 shall be in
accordance with the following Guidelines:
9.3.1 Siting and Orientation of Buildings
i. Orient buildings so they are facing public
streets.
ii. Locate offices, reception and other public
uses at grade and along building faces that
front streets. Ensure entrances are easily
identifiable and architecturally distinct.
iii. Corner buildings must be oriented to face
both adjacent streets.
iv. Create architectural interest by varying
building materials, colours, roof-lines, and
other architectural elements.
v. Provide some form of weather protection
to the main entrance to a building.
vi. Locate loading bays, outdoor storage and
garbage enclosure areas behind buildings
and separated from visitor parking areas,
where size of property permits.
vii. Make
loading
areas
and
facilities
accessible to service vehicles without
interfering with pedestrian circulation.
viii. All buildings and site design must
incorporate Universal Design Guidelines.
ix. Building development should result in no
net increase in post-development overland
stormwater flows. Additional overland flow
produced from the development must
be managed on-site. The use of rain
gardens to promote infiltration and water
purification are strongly encouraged.
9.3.2 Landscaping
i. A site specific landscape plan prepared by
a registered Landscape Architect or related
professional shall be submitted, as part
of the Development Permit application.
The landscape plan shall indicate all
VI. DEVELOPMENT PERMIT AREAS
DPA 8 - INDUSTRIAL
OCP - FRESHLY PICKED FUTURE
existing and proposed features. The
landscape plan shall include a plan for on-
site stormwater retention and infiltration.
BL#1968
ii. Healthy, mature trees and vegetation shall
be retained where possible.
iii. Plantings and planting areas shall:
a. screen abutting residential buildings
from
commercial
buildings
and
associated parking areas where
they are not separated by a street
or a lane with a vegetated buffer
containing mature plantings along
the entire property line excepting
areas of ingress and egress;
b. screen abutting residential buildings
from
commercial
buildings
and
associated parking areas that are
separated by a street or lane with
a minimum 3m vegetated buffer
containing mature plantings along the
entire property line, excepting areas
of ingress and egress; BL#1968
c. screen commercial buildings and
associated parking areas from the
edge of the road right-of-way with a
minimum 3m wide vegetated buffer
containing mature plantings along the
entire property line, excepting areas
of ingress and egress; BL#1968
d. screen storage areas such as waste
receptacles, dumpsters, and building
mechanicals from the street;
e. be used as a treatment to break up
large building façades;
f. define or frame paths, streets,
entrances;
g. shade buildings and outdoor spaces;
h. slow runoff and facilitate on-site
infiltration of stormwater;
73
i. provide
street
trees
along
the
frontage road; and
j. provide planting in other open space
areas not needed for parking, access
roads or walkways.
9.3.3 Parking and Vehicular Access
i. Parking areas shall be located to the rear,
side, or below the building(s) where space
is available.
ii. Parking areas shall be broken up with tree
plantings and landscaping.
iii. The use of permeable paving materials is
strongly encouraged.
iv. Parking area development should result
in no net increase in post-development
overland stormwater flows. Additional
overland flow produced from parking
area development must be managed on-
site. The use of rain gardens to promote
infiltration and water purification are
strongly encouraged. BL#1968
v. Provision shall be made for the parking of
motorized scooters and bicycles.
vi. All parking and access routes shall be
OCP - FRESHLY PICKED FUTURE
VI. DEVELOPMENT PERMIT AREAS
DPA 8 - INDUSTRIAL
adequately illuminated utilizing Dark Sky
Compliant Lighting Guidelines.
9.3.4 Pedestrian Access
i. Provide well defined pedestrian access
from the adjacent street/sidewalk and/or
parking areas to all building entrances.
ii. All walkways shall be designed for
Universal Accessibility.
iii. The hard surfacing of walkways and
patios should result in no net increase in
postdevelopment overland stormwater
flows. Additional overland flow produced
from pedestrian infrastructure development
must be managed on-site. The use of rain
gardens to promote infiltration and water
purification are strongly encouraged.
BL#1968
iv. All parking and access routes shall be
adequately illuminated utilizing Dark Sky
Compliant Lighting Guidelines.
9.3.5 Signs
i. All signs must meet the requirements
of the Town of Creston Sign Bylaw as
amended from time to time.
VII. ENERGY & GREENHOUSE
GAS (GHG) EMISSIONS
76
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VII. ENERGY & GREENHOUSE GAS (GHG) EMISSIONS
ENERGY AND GREENHOUSE GAS (GHG)
EMISSIONS
The Town of Creston supports the Province of British
Columbia's goal to reduce overall Greenhouse Gas
(GHG) emissions in British Columbia by 33% from
2007 levels by 2020, and 80% by 2050. The Town
of Creston is a signatory to the Province's Climate
Action Charter and Council is committed to reducing
GHG emissions in the community. As such, Council
has set the following reduction targets:
10% reduction from 2007 baseline
levels in community-wide emissions by
2020; and
20% reduction from 2007 baseline
levels by 2030.
Such a commitment is intended to protect the
environment and enhance the local economy. It
is estimated that our community spends over $20
million on energy annually, or approximately $3900
per person, with energy costs projected to almost
double by 2020 (see Creston Strategic Community
Energy and Emissions Plan (SCEEP), 2016).
Taking climate action therefore supports community
prosperity by keeping more money in the local
economy.
Source: Town of Creston, SCEEP, 2016
77
Source: Town of Creston SCEEP 2016
VII. ENERGY & GREENHOUSE GAS (GHG) EMISSIONS
OCP - FRESHLY PICKED FUTURE
Approximately 58% of Creston's GHG emissions
are generated by transportation (passenger and
heavy duty vehicles using gasoline and diesel fuel).
The remaining +/- 38% of emissions comes from
residential, commercial, institutional and industrial
buildings (mainly from burning of natural gas for
heat). Interestingly, less than 4% of GHG emissions
come from solid waste (see Community Energy and
Emissions Inventory (CEEI), 2010 and the Creston
SCEEP, 2016). Considering the above, actions to
reduce GHG emissions are primarily focused on
changes to transportation and buildings.
Because electricity is produced predominately in
hydroelectric facilities, it contributes very little to
Creston's GHG pollution, even though electricity
provides approximately 20% of the community's
overall energy requirements. Approximately one
quarter of Creston's residential building heating
energy is supplied by wood, which is another lower-
carbon energy source.
Reducing GHG emissions is an ambitious project,
as shown in the graph of "Business-As-Usual"
(BAU) vs taking action (Target) (see graph to
right). In addition, small and rural communities
face unique resource and economic considerations
that may affect the level of GHG reduction that can
be achieved in a relatively short time period. By
signing the Climate Action Charter in 2009, Creston
recognized that creating complete, compact, more
energy efficient communities helps to reduce GHG
emissions. Complete and compact communities
reduce
automobile
dependency,
energy
use
and GHG pollution by making use of existing
infrastructure and Residential Infill Development.
The Town of Creston intends to reduce its GHG
output by applying the model known as the "strategic
energy planning hierarchy", which is based on
principles articulated in the Creston SCEEP
2016. As such, the Town will work first to reduce
Source: Town of Creston, CEEI, 2010
Tonnes CO2 Equivelant
78
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energy demand through compact land use, active
transportation planning, small-scale and cluster
development and efficient buildings, and then look
to meet the remaining energy demand through local
renewable energy sources.
Note - Additional actions that will support Energy
conservation and the reduction of GHG emissions
are detailed in Section IX of this Plan; Future
Harvests
The Town of Creston expects that its climate
action efforts will generate social, environmental,
economic, and health benefits for individuals,
families and businesses throughout the community.
For example, active transportation infrastructure
that promotes walking can improve community
health, and contribute to Connectivity. A Street
Tree Planting Program lowers temperatures in
the summer, reducing the need for cooling (air
conditioning), while also enhancing livability.
Providing fueling infrastructure for electric vehicles
supports tourism with associated economic spin-
offs. Smaller, energy efficient buildings, or clustered
developments with shared walls, can reduce the
demand for (and cost of) space heating, thereby
increasing community resiliency.
ENERGY AND GHG EMISSION POLICIES
1.1
Encourage energy efficient, Residential
Infill Development and densification
within currently serviced areas, with
a focus on the Residential Growth
Containment Area (RGCA).
1.2
Consider adoption of new regulatory
and legislative mechanisms as tools
to promote green and energy efficient
development.
DID YOU KNOW?
Creston has already implemented
specific Greenhouse Gas reduction
actions including :
Installation of LED trail lighting
and LED lighting at several
intersections.
Installation
of
three
electric
vehicle charging stations in the
Downtown Core.
Development
of
"Cultivating
Creston"
our
Integrated
Community Sustainability Plan
(ICSP).
Development
of
a
Strategic
Community
Energy
and
Emissions Plan.
Participation in the Kootenay
Energy Diet to help local citizens
reduce energy use in their homes.
Participation in the high efficiency
wood stove exchange program
with the Regional District of
Central Kootenay (RDCK).
Implementation of a yard waste
diversion program to reduce
organics in the waste stream.
VII. ENERGY & GREENHOUSE GAS (GHG) EMISSIONS
79
OCP - FRESHLY PICKED FUTURE
1.3
Encourage new development to promote
walkability and Connectivity amongst
areas of the Town that contain open
space, recreational facilities and land
designated as institutional, commercial
or residential.
1.4
Support the formation of a Car-Share
Program, enhancements to the public
transit experience, and development
of
Ride-Share
Programs
where
appropriate.
1.5
Improve
pedestrian
and
cycling
infrastructure,
including
sidewalks,
bikelanes and trails, to support multi-
modal Connectivity and safety across
the community.
1.6
Encourage the design and construction
of energy efficient new buildings,
and retrofits in existing residential,
commercial and institutional buildings
and infrastructure, using means such as
Revitalization Tax Exemption Programs,
reduced
development
fees
and
partnerships with other organizations.
1.7
Encourage site designs that maximize
tree planting and green space retention
with an emphasis on open space and
street trees to reduce building energy
demand.
1.8
Continue to support incentive programs
that target the reduction of GHG
emissions (eg. a wood stove exchange
program).
1.9
Encourage the use of energy alternatives
such as solar hot water or photovoltaics.
1.10 Encourage water conservation through
participation in initiatives such as the
Water Smart Ambassador Program.
1.11 Foster local food production through
ongoing support of the Creston Valley
Farmers' Market.
1.12 Provide ongoing support for the local
Fields Forward partnership.
1.13 Encourage reduced dependency on
automobiles by creating complete and
compact neighbourhoods within walking
distances of services.
1.14 Encourage walking and cycling by
building a high quality network of trails,
sidewalks, shared streets, and parks.
1.15 Continue support for the electric vehicle
charging network.
1.16 Support additional programs with climate
co-benefits, such as a vigorous Street
Tree Planting Program that improves
walkability and lowers the Urban Heat
Island effect.
1.17 Support community endeavors that
explore alternatives to traditional fossil
fuel energy sources such as Biomass
Energy, etc.
1.18 Support yard waste diversion programs
to reduce organics in the waste stream.
1.19 Develop and implement a Creston
Climate Action Plan to guide the Town in
anticipating and planning for upcoming
changes to the local and regional climate
when making development, policy and
program decisions that affect Creston.
BL#1968
Note - Beyond this Section of the OCP it should be noted
that policies found throughout this Plan will contribute to
reduction of energy use and GHG emissions.
Note - See the Implementation Section (pg. 103 of this
Plan) for future actions that will result in reduced energy
and GHG emissions.
VII. ENERGY & GREENHOUSE GAS (GHG) EMISSIONS
80
OCP - FRESHLY PICKED FUTURE
Energy and GHG Illustration 1: Infill, including Densification and Energy-Efficient Building Design
Energy and GHG Illustration 2: Development, including Site and Building Design,
that Promotes Walkability and Connectivity
VII. ENERGY & GREENHOUSE GAS (GHG) EMISSIONS
81
Energy and GHG Illustration 3: Site Design and Tree Locations for Cooling in Summer, and
Protection from Winds in Winter
OCP - FRESHLY PICKED FUTURE
VII. ENERGY & GREENHOUSE GAS (GHG) EMISSIONS
VIII. COMMUNITY GOALS
& POLICIES
84
Community goals and policies are outlined in the following categories:
A. Quality of Life & Inclusive Local Identity
B. Neighbourhoods & Housing
C. Connectivity
D. Economic Prosperity
E. Downtown Vibrancy
F. Valley Collaboration
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VIII. COMMUNITY GOALS & POLICIES
85
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VIII. COMMUNITY GOALS & POLICIES
A. QUALITY OF LIFE & INCLUSIVE LOCAL IDENTITY
COMMUNITY GOAL
Creston fosters a unique sense of place and quality of life that allows all people to thrive, and reflects an
authentic, vibrant and inclusive local identity.
CITIZEN DIRECTION
The Town of Creston has the potential to become a place where all people can thrive. Living in and visiting
our small town should connect people with a uniquely Creston Valley sense of place. Local culture should
honour our Yaqan Nukiy and Valley settler heritage and celebrate food and farming, arts and artisans, nature
and wildlife, and a slower pace of life. Local identity should be rural, relaxed, friendly, inclusive, and self-
reliant. We value good quality educational, recreational, social and health services, as well as the social
supports that we offer one another. The social fabric of our community should continue to be strengthened,
so that Creston becomes a place where residents of all ages and abilities are able to fully engage in public
processes and community life. Implementing this Plan should ensure that local land use brings quality of life
benefits, including more dynamic public places and a beautified built environment.
POLICIES
1. Celebrate Creston as a community
that values people of all ages, abilities,
race, ethnic, and cultural backgrounds,
incomes, genders, sexual orientations,
and family statuses. BL#1968
1.1 Honour the dignity, worth and contributions
to community life of all people and foster a
local culture of inclusion and respect.
1.2 Encourage equitable access to foundational
community assets and services among
neighbourhoods and populations.
1.3 Continue working with stakeholders to
support adequate programming, services
and infrastructure to meet the needs of all
residents.
1.4 Encourage community wide implementation
of the recommended actions identified in the
Age Friendly Action Plan, 2013.
1.5 Encourage community wide implementation
of the recommended actions identified in the
Youth Engagement Strategy, 2014.
1.6 Work with stakeholders to understand
Creston's changing demographics and to
support the needs of Creston's growing
population of younger families, including the
need for child care options.
1.7 Support and partner on efforts to prevent,
reduce and alleviate local poverty, as
appropriate.
1.8 Promote
the
development
of
a
built
environment that offers opportunities for all
residents to participate in community life and
the Public Realm.
1.9 Recognize the importance of Universal
Accessibility
for
the
entirety
of
the
municipality's built environment, particularly
the Downtown Core.
1.10 Encourage relevant stakeholders to improve
the physical accessibility of public and private
property.
86
2. Ensure that community design reflects
Creston's unique small town character.
2.1 Acknowledge and show respect for the distinct
Lower Kootenay Band and Valley settler
heritage and culture of our community.
2.2 Develop interpretive signage, art and historical
references that reflect our distinct local identity
and the diversity of our community.
2.3 Encourage public art in multiple forms, with an
emphasis on local art.
2.4 Encourage the retention of heritage features
in buildings, streetscapes and public spaces
through the establishment of Development
Permit Areas with associated Guidelines.
2.5 Strengthen the unique connections between
Creston's natural setting, food, farms, arts,
culture, heritage and industry, while seeking
opportunities to reflect these in our built
environment.
3.
Strive
for
enhanced
community
beautification.
3.1 Encourage beautification and an enhanced
sense of place through the use of incentives
and regulations as appropriate.
3.2 Encourage the retention and optimization of
viewscapes including the dramatic view of the
Creston Valley and surrounding mountains.
3.3 Use proactive strategies and create incentives
to
redevelop
and
convert
underused
properties.
3.4 Undertake greening strategies to improve the
community's aesthetic and to promote energy
efficient design.
Note - See Energy and Greenhouse Gas
(GHG) Emission Section on pg. 73 of this
Plan for greater detail.
4. Promote a vibrant sustainable food
system as a pillar of the local economy
and a vital part of Creston's identity.
4.1 Provide ongoing support for the Farmers'
Market and its location in the future Market
Park.
4.2 Develop locally appropriate policies that
support urban agriculture in relevant Town of
Creston bylaws.
4.3 Support and partner on local food projects as
appropriate.
4.4 Incorporate edible landscaping into public
lands, where appropriate.
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A. QUALITY OF LIFE & INCLUSIVE LOCAL IDENTITY
VIII. COMMUNITY GOALS & POLICIES
Photo by Lorne Eckersley
87
4.5 Develop partnerships with community groups
to develop, maintain and enhance community
gardens.
5. Provide residents and visitors with
safe access to diverse, attractive and
engaging community spaces.
5.1 Develop
policies
to
identify
social
connectedness as a priority in land use
planning in relevant Town of Creston bylaws.
5.2 Infuse the Public Realm with vibrant features
and activities including programmed events,
art installations, performances, ceremonies,
festivals, street markets and unstructured
social interaction.
5.3 Support
community
connection
through
provision of venues for community interaction,
community building activities and events, and
the sharing of information about community
issues and services.
5.4 Consider land acquisition and use of public
lands to address the community's desire for
abundant and diverse gathering places.
5.5 Design public spaces to promote inter-
generational socialization.
5.6 Create opportunities for interactive and
enjoyable public spaces by using furniture,
banners, signs, interactive public art, heritage
interpretation, paving patterns and other place
making design elements.
OCP - FRESHLY PICKED FUTURE
A. QUALITY OF LIFE & INCLUSIVE LOCAL IDENTITY
5.7 Facilitate the use of roadways as gathering
spaces for special events.
6. Promote the health and wellbeing of
citizens at the community level.
6.1 Continue to fund and support the Creston
Valley Health Working Group's (CVHWG)
Physician Recruitment Program.
6.2 Enhance and develop partnerships with
Interior Health, the Province and community
organizations
to
build
a
healthy
built
environment.
6.3 Plan and build our community in ways
that have a positive impact on health and
wellbeing, such as promotion of active
transportation, compact community design
and easy access to parks, open spaces, and
recreation facilities.
6.4 Promote smoke free community events such
as markets, parades and festivals.
VIII. COMMUNITY GOALS & POLICIES
Did you know?
There are 40 thousand people who
visit the Creston Valley Farmers
Market (CVFM) every year and the
estimated annual economic impact
of the CVFM is $2 million dollars.
88
OCP - FRESHLY PICKED FUTURE
B. NEIGHBOURHOODS & HOUSING
COMMUNITY GOAL
Creston's residents have access to diverse housing options in neighbourhoods designed to promote social
inclusion, walkability and connection with the community as a whole.
CITIZEN DIRECTION
Creston's neighbourhoods should foster exceptional quality of life and a rich sense of community belonging
for all residents. Living in our small town should come with the advantages of knowing our neighbours
and enjoying the scenic beauty of the Creston Valley. Neighbourhoods should promote well-being through
design that encourages recreating, socializing and shopping close to home. Greening our streets, enhancing
public spaces and improving walkability are important neighbourhood goals. A greater diversity of affordable,
accessible, and good-quality housing choices should be available to residents at all stages of life. Supporting
first-time home ownership, aging in place, multi-generational living and independent living for people with
disabilities are key priorities. Implementing this Plan should contribute to revitalising our neighbourhoods in
ways that meet the evolving needs and aspirations of the people who call Creston home.
POLICIES
1.
Develop
pleasant
neighbourhoods
which promote social interaction and
reflect Creston's small town character.
1.1 Support
social
connectedness
through
the
Town
of
Creston
Zoning
Bylaw,
including Density Bonusing, for residential
developments
consisting
of
additional
floor area, additional units per hectare, or
other measures of density in exchange for
additional developer-sponsored and created
Usable Public Open Spaces, trails, other
amenities and housing.
1.2 Support the needs of households living
in multi-family developments by requiring
minimum Usable Common Open Space.
Note - See Development Permit Area 3 -
Multi-Family DPA (pg. 53 of this Plan) for
associated Guidelines.
1.3 Consider permitting the temporary closure
of residential streets for neighbourhood
block gatherings and the development of a
municipally managed resident notification
process.
1.4 Promote social interaction among neighbours,
including
across
generations,
through
neighbourhood design and programming in
public spaces.
2. Encourage a wide range of housing
options in terms of ownership, type and
size that address the needs of Creston's
diverse
demographics,
lifestyles
and
incomes.
2.1 Develop a typology brochure/guide to inspire
developers about possibilities for small, high
quality housing options.
Note - See Appendix D (pg. 139) for greater
detail on Residential typologies.
2.2 Promote Residential Infill Development within
the Residential Growth Containment Area
(RGCA) to increase housing options (e.g.
Co-Housing, accessory dwellings, secondary
suites, cottage and cluster neighbourhoods)
VIII. COMMUNITY GOALS & POLICIES
89
OCP - FRESHLY PICKED FUTURE
B. NEIGHBOURHOODS & HOUSING
within walkable distances of work, school,
recreational
facilities
and
commercial
amenities.
2.3 Explore opportunities for the creation of
reduced frontage subdivisions to encourage
small lot development.
3. Encourage the development of rental,
accessible, Affordable, and Special Needs
Housing in a variety of forms.
3.1 Encourage the development of Special Needs
Housing for persons with disabilities within the
RGCA through regulatory mechanisms such
as rezoning and Density Bonusing.
3.2 Encourage the development of Affordable
Housing options within the RGCA, such as
small homes and secondary suites, where
appropriate, which can serve as mortgage
helpers for owners while providing affordable
options for renters or extended family.
3.3 Support the development of Market and Non-
Market Rental Housing.
3.4 Support congregate care facilities which offer
options for continued aging in place residential
care.
3.5 Within housing developments, encourage
design that responds to the needs of people,
including those with mobility challenges.
4. Encourage sensitive Residential Infill
Development that is compatible with
existing neighbourhoods.
4.1 Support
Residential
Infill
Development
that is appropriate in scale and density to
its neighborhood context and that uses
compatible design to reinforce neighborhood
character.
4.2 Encourage Residential Infill Development
to contribute to neighborhood Connectivity
and walkability and to enhance public open
spaces and green spaces within existing
neighborhoods.
4.3 Encourage
retention
of
existing
trees
and natural features in order to preserve
neighborhood character and ecology.
4.4 Plan and design Residential Infill Development
to accommodate a wide range of diverse
housing types within a neighborhood to
support a diversity of household sizes,
compositions, and rental opportunities.
4.5 Encourage Residential Infill Development
to include secondary suites and accessory
dwellings.
4.6 Develop secondary suite and accessory
dwelling guidelines that include, but are not
limited to, the following criteria:
4.6.1 Adequate on-site (off street) parking is
provided;
4.6.2 Private open space is provided for each
unit;
4.6.3 Adequate landscaping and screening is
provided;
4.6.4 Adequate municipal or on-site servicing
is available;
4.6.5 A maximum of 1 secondary suite or
accessory dwelling is permitted per
property, in accordance with the Town
of Creston Zoning Bylaw;
4.6.6 The
character
of
the
residential
neighbourhood is maintained; and,
4.6.7 All applicable requirements are met.
VIII. COMMUNITY GOALS & POLICIES
90
OCP - FRESHLY PICKED FUTURE
B. NEIGHBOURHOODS & HOUSING
4.7 Accessory dwellings and secondary suites
within
Residential
Infill
Development
areas shall be encouraged through the
implementation
of
preferential
municipal
utility rates and other available regulatory and
legislative mechanisms.
5. Encourage mixed use development
to support local small business viability
in the Downtown Area and the lands
contained within the Northwest Boulevard
Local Area Plan
5.1
Encourage
development
of
residential
units within the Downtown Area which compliment
the principal commercial uses with street facing
commercial on the ground floor.
Note - See Development Permit Area 4 -
Downtown Core DPA (pg. 57) for greater
detail.
5.2 Encourage
construction
of
mixed
use
development within the Northwest Boulevard
Local Area Plan area.
5.3 Develop and apply form, character and siting
guidelines to all mixed use areas of this Plan.
Note - See Development Permit Area 4 -
Downtown Core DPA, and Development
Permit Area 6 - Northwest Boulevard LAP
DPA (pg. 59 and pg. 65 of this Plan) for
greater detail.
VIII. COMMUNITY GOALS & POLICIES
91
OCP - FRESHLY PICKED FUTURE
C. CONNECTIVITY
COMMUNITY GOAL
Creston is a connected and walkable community where there are opportunities for many types of transportation,
recreation and leisure activities.
CITIZEN DIRECTION
Getting to, from, and around Creston, and into the natural beauty that surrounds our community, should be
safe and enjoyable for all people. Living in and visiting our small town should come with the advantages of
being able to get around conveniently, especially on foot, bicycle, and scooter. Good options for commuting
to school, work, errands, community events, and public places are priorities. A broader range of parks, formal
recreation sites and trails is also desired. Implementing this Plan should make a well-connected Town of
Creston the hub of a broader Creston Valley transportation and recreation network. This network should
link the communities from Yahk to Lower Kootenay Band to Riondel, drawing people to local assets and
amenities.
POLICIES
1. Create a well-connected Creston Valley.
1.1 Work with adjacent stakeholders and other
levels of government to establish a pedestrian
/ cycling network that links communities from
Yahk to Lower Kootenay Band to Riondel.
2. Create a well-connected Town of
Creston.
2.1 Adopt and implement an updated Greenways
& Trails Master Plan.
2.2 Target enhanced community Connectivity
by improving and completing road, sidewalk
and trail connections between residential
areas, the Creston Valley Library, the Creston
& District Community Complex, the Creston
Valley Mall, businesses along Northwest
Boulevard, the Downtown Core, schools and
parks.
2.3 Encourage pedestrian trails and sidewalk
routes between residential neighbourhoods
and schools to be efficient and prioritized in
neighbourhood development.
2.4 Consider development of Glaser Drive as a
safe pedestrian route, in order to facilitate an
alternative to walking on Northwest Boulevard.
2.5 Encourage Residential Infill Development
within the Residential Growth Containment
Area (RGCA) to increase the proportion of
residents living within walkable distances of
work, school, recreation facilities, and other
services.
2.6 Work with the Ministry of Transportation and
Infrastructure (MOTI) to include bike lanes
and appropriate signage along Northwest
Boulevard and Cook Street in any street re-
design or improvements.
3. Advocate for improved innovative
community transportation options.
3.1 Support the development and promotion of a
Community Ride-Share Program specific to
the needs of people who do not drive.
3.2 Advocate with BC Transit, the Regional
District of Central Kootenay (RDCK) and
MOTI for enhanced transit services and
facilities throughout the community.
3.3 Support and partner on local transportation
projects as appropriate.
VIII. COMMUNITY GOALS & POLICIES
92
C. CONNECTIVITY
OCP - FRESHLY PICKED FUTURE
4. Promote community design that makes
Creston experiences safe, accessible and
enjoyable for residents and visitors.
4.1 Work
with
community
stakeholders
to
undertake an Accessibility Assessment for the
community.
4.2 Encourage the construction of continuous
sidewalks to provide ease of pedestrian
passage.
4.3 Encourage the construction of extended curbs
at key intersections.
4.4 Promote opportunities for enhanced safety
and comfort through effective community
design, including but not limited to: places to
rest, increased width of sidewalks, vehicular
separation, and the provision of shade and
amenities.
4.5 Enhance the pedestrian experience in public
spaces through design choices including but
not limited to: places to rest, shade, amenities,
street lighting, public art and attractive
opportunities for socialization.
4.6 Develop a Street Tree Planting Program for
boulevards and private lands.
5. Design and maintain roadways to serve
a variety of users, including pedestrians,
cyclists, and vehicles.
5.1 Improve the design of new and retrofitted
streets to: enhance Connectivity; allow
multiple modes of travel; and, promote
enhanced pedestrian, scooter and cycling
opportunities and safety.
5.2 Work with MOTI to include bike lanes
and appropriate signage along Northwest
Boulevard and Cook Street in any street re-
design or improvements.
6. Lead the development of a well-designed
network of recreational trails, parks and
amenities for the Town of Creston.
6.1 Utilize
undeveloped
rights-of-way
and
municipally owned vacant land for recreational
opportunities and gathering spaces.
6.2 Designate the lands identified as Municipal
Forest for recreational opportunities.
6.3 Develop partnerships with community groups
for construction and maintenance of new
municipal trails and recreation projects.
6.4 Partner with community groups to develop,
enhance and maintain quality recreational
facilities and infrastructure including: ball
diamonds, soccer fields, the bike park, the
skate park, the splash park, the green gyms
and other facilities.
7.
Work
together
with
neighbouring
local governments and other community
partners to improve outdoor recreational
opportunities in the Creston Valley.
7.1 Work with adjacent stakeholders and other
levels of government to secure access to
natural recreation amenities in the surrounding
rural areas and to formalize existing trails.
VIII. COMMUNITY GOALS & POLICIES
93
C. CONNECTIVITY
OCP - FRESHLY PICKED FUTURE
7.2 Work with adjacent stakeholders and other
levels of government to secure safe and
convenient public access to natural water
systems (e.g. Goat River, Kootenay River,
Kootenay Lake).
7.3 Work with adjacent stakeholders and other
levels of government to improve amenities
within the Creston Valley Wildlife Management
Area (CVWMA).
7.4 Work with adjacent local governments and
stakeholders to support building a network of
Intra-Valley trails and to secure linkages from
the Town of Creston to these trails.
8. Work together with neighbouring local
governments to create a Wayfinding
Strategy for the Creston Valley and to put
in place useful and consistent signage
throughout Creston.
8.1 Create comprehensive directional signage
and a community mapping system that
features the Creston Valley brand: "Growing
Together".
8.2 Work with RDCK and community partners
to undertake and implement a Wayfinding
Strategy for the Creston Valley that highlights
local assets.
8.3 Liaise with Ministry of Transportation and
Infrastructure to achieve roadway signage
that complements the Creston Valley brand:
"Growing Together", and the Town and Valley's
Wayfinding Strategy.
8.4 Create directional signage to identify service
facilities such as Town Hall, Hospital and
public restrooms, as well as key public and
commercial amenities.
8.5 Utilize public art and urban design treatments
(e.g. banners, lighting, and landscaping) to
augment wayfinding.
VIII. COMMUNITY GOALS & POLICIES
8.6 Incorporate interpretive elements into the
Wayfinding Strategy to reflect the diversity
and assets of our community.
94
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D. ECONOMIC PROSPERITY
COMMUNITY GOAL
Creston has a thriving economy that fosters local entrepreneurship and job creation, and that meets community
needs through effective, efficient and creative use of our diverse resources and assets.
CITIZEN DIRECTION
The Creston Valley economy should build genuine wealth for today's residents and for generations to come.
It should do so without threatening our natural environment, idyllic scenery, small town character, or quality of
life. We wish to maintain a diverse economy that contributes to the diversity and resiliency of our community.
Further, we wish to develop an increasingly self-reliant economy that is driven by local, natural and human
resources and that retains local value. The top priority for economic development is cultivating conditions
that enable entrepreneurship and job creation. Increasing the availability and affordability of basic goods and
services, including local food, is also desired. Implementing this Plan should lead to more purposeful and
coordinated management of local land and economic assets. Benefits should be shared by the community
as a whole.
POLICIES
1.
Foster
job
creation,
business
development and economic prosperity.
1.1 Partner with community stakeholders to
undertake
collaborative
initiatives
that
promote the Creston Valley's economic
strengths and competitive advantages to
further the following sectors:
1.1.1 Agri-food
1.1.2 Value Added Forestry;
1.1.3 Biomass Energy;
1.1.4 Tourism sectors; and,
1.1.5 Small business community.
1.2 Continue to participate with adjacent local
governments and stakeholders to establish a
regional economic development function and
strategy.
1.3 In order to support business and workforce
attraction,
complete
an
assessment
of
economic assets and limitations and develop
related strategies for improving our local
economic development advantages.
1.4 Develop and maintain relationships with
upper levels of government in service of
local economic and business development
interests.
1.5 Cooperate with other levels of government,
the local business community and other
stakeholders to foster a robust Business
Retention and Expansion (BRE) Program.
1.6 Participate in collaborative efforts to advance
local and regional workforces, and business
and investment attraction interests, through
participation in online economic development
platforms.
1.7 Partner
with
community
organizations,
business owners and stakeholders to promote
an ongoing Shop Local Program.
1.8 Foster economic development that meets the
needs of residents in terms of availability and
affordability of basic goods and services.
1.9 Consider a satellite expansion of the municipal
boundary to incorporate the municipally
owned Creston Valley Regional Airport and
surrounding lands as a means to further
economic development opportunities for the
Town of Creston.
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95
D. ECONOMIC PROSPERITY
OCP - FRESHLY PICKED FUTURE
1.10 Support Economic Prosperity by encouraging
the sufficient supply of housing, employee
housing and childcare to retain working
individuals
and
families
within
Town
boundaries. BL#1968
2. Encourage development of Employment
Lands
which
are
aligned
with
our
community's small town character.
2.1 Encourage development and utilization of
Employment Lands to maximize job creation
and economic activity while prioritizing
environmental sustainability, visual appeal,
functionality, walkability and integration with
the larger community.
2.2 Recognize Employment Lands as distinct
nodes within the community that have defined
points of entry and exit, and which transition
effectively into adjacent land uses.
Note - See Development Permit Areas 4-8
(pg. 59 to 73 of this Plan) for greater detail on
guidelines for development of Employment
Lands.
2.3 Within the Town of Creston Zoning Bylaw,
review and revise permitted uses for Northwest
Boulevard, to better distinguish between uses
that may be more appropriately located in
Industrial areas or the Downtown Core.
2.4 Encourage the Regional District of Central
Kootenay (RDCK) to establish form and
character guidelines for development of
businesses located outside the Town of
Creston boundaries on major thoroughfares.
2.5 Review and amend the Town of Creston
Zoning Bylaw to establish maximum square
footage areas for commercial businesses
located outside of the Downtown Core.
3. Ensure sufficient supply of Employment
Lands to meet future needs of the local
and regional economy.
3.1 Encourage the full utilization of existing
Industrial and other Employment Lands to
maximize jobs and economic activity.
VIII. COMMUNITY GOALS & POLICIES
96
3.2 Support the infill and redevelopment of
underutilized properties in Employment Land
zones.
3.3 Consider a satellite boundary expansion to
incorporate municipally owned Airport Lands
into the Town of Creston governance structure.
4. Promote the availability of effective
and
up-to-date
telecommunication
infrastructure, where appropriate, while
recognizing service levels as a key
component of connectivity.
4.1 Recognize the Canadian Radio-television
and
Telecommunications
Commission's
declaration that broadband internet access
is a basic and essential telecommunication
service.
4.2 Work with service providers and other
stakeholders to enhance our broadband
network and improve internet speeds for
institutions, businesses and households.
4.3 Encourage
service
providers
to
bring
advanced broadband to surrounding rural
areas.
4.4 Work with stakeholders to explore options for
the provision of free internet access in the
Downtown Core, to enhance local quality of
life and support tourism development.
5. Support the development of a robust
workforce and entrepreneurial culture.
5.1 Recognize
and
support
socio-economic
assets (such as community amenities,
social enterprises, non-profits and volunteer
organizations), as having an important role in
enhancing the attractiveness of the community
as a destination for investment and business
development.
5.2 Consider measures to retain and attract
young families and people as a way to grow
the local workforce and maintain or improve
community service levels.
5.3 Support expansion of local opportunities for
skills training and career programs.
5.4 Develop regulations to permit food trucks and
other vendors in outdoor spaces.
5.5 Permit home occupation businesses as a
means to support an entrepreneurial culture
and business incubation.
5.6 Review and amend the Town of Creston
Zoning Bylaw to update regulations for home
occupations (e.g. requirement for on-site
parking etc.).
6. Explore legislative and regulatory
mechanisms
to
enhance
business
opportunities.
6.1 Review policies and practices to streamline
municipal approval processes and foster ease
of doing business in the Town of Creston.
6.2 Use
proactive
strategies
and
creative
incentives to redevelop and convert under
utilized properties.
6.3 Explore opportunities to encourage private
sector investment in strategic areas of the
community through the use of legislative
mechanisms such as development incentives
(e.g. Revitalization Tax Exemption Program).
6.4 Consider taking advantage of strategic
investment opportunities and partnerships by
using municipally owned lands to leverage
development and amenity opportunities.
7. Develop the local tourism sector as
a contributor to the region's economic
base.
7.1 Encourage the growth of tourism by building
on the Creston Valley's natural and cultural
features to foster a positive image of the
community as a place to visit.
OCP - FRESHLY PICKED FUTURE
D. ECONOMIC PROSPERITY
VIII. COMMUNITY GOALS & POLICIES
97
7.2 Partner with adjacent local governments and
stakeholders to promote asset-based tourism
opportunities, building on authentic Creston
Valley experiences which appeal to residents
and visitors alike.
7.3 Work with adjacent local governments,
accommodators and community stakeholders
to explore the potential to implement the
Municipal and Regional District Tax (MRDT)
Program.
7.4 Support the expansion and enhancement
of the Visitor Information Centre (VIC) in
cooperation with adjacent local governments.
7.5 Encourage tourism involved businesses and
tourist campaigns to make effective use of
the Creston Valley Brand: "Growing Together"
to help ensure consistent marketing in our
community.
7.6 Partner with Kootenay Rockies Tourism
Association, Destination BC, and other
organizations to promote tourism through
destination development opportunities.
7.7 Develop community amenities and tourist
destinations, such as future Market Park, as
contributors to the region's economic base.
8. Develop the local agri-food sector as
a contributor to the region's economic
base.
8.1 Support
development
of
agri-tourism
opportunities
that
complement
primary
farming activities.
8.2 Support the allocation of appropriate lands for
agriculture related commercial uses such as
greenhouses, food processing etc.
8.3 Encourage
a
thriving
and
innovative
agricultural sector by supporting agri-food
businesses in appropriate locations.
8.4 Support and showcase the agricultural sector
OCP - FRESHLY PICKED FUTURE
D. ECONOMIC PROSPERITY
VIII. COMMUNITY GOALS & POLICIES
by supporting local and regional initiatives to
protect and further develop local food and
farm industry and culture.
8.5 Provide ongoing support for the local Fields
Forward partnership.
8.6 Support a thriving food system throughout
the community, including local production,
processing,
distribution,
celebration
and
consumption.
8.7 Promote farming by providing a viable market
for local growers and distributors at the
prescribed site (future Market Park) in the
Downtown Core.
8.8 Explore opportunities for development of a
permanent indoor Farmers' Market location
for operation during the winter months.
8.9 The Town of Creston supports coordinated
and collaborative planning efforts with the
Agricultural Land Commission.
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E. DOWNTOWN VIBRANCY
OCP - FRESHLY PICKED FUTURE
COMMUNITY GOAL
Creston continues to enhance its Downtown Area as a vibrant, inclusive and memorable small town centre
that is the social and economic hub of the Creston Valley.
CITIZEN DIRECTION
Downtown Creston should be the vibrant centre of our community, a social and economic hub for the Creston
Valley and a unique destination for tourists to our region. Ambitious efforts should be undertaken to fulfill
the Downtown Area's potential to support small business and cultural activity. Traffic should be reduced
and calmed and the Downtown Area should be redesigned as a place for people to linger. Preserving
local heritage, greening Canyon Street, enhancing public amenities and spaces, adding local public art
and improving accessibility and walkability are important goals. Minimizing the negative impact of vacant,
unoccupied, and underutilized land on the look and feel of downtown is also desired. Establishing the future
Market Park as the heart of downtown and as a central gathering place for the Creston Valley are recognized
community priorities. Implementing this Plan should help to create a livelier downtown neighbourhood where
businesses thrive and all residents and visitors feel welcome.
POLICIES
1. Enhance the viability and vibrancy
of the Downtown Area, including the
Downtown Core.
1.1 Recognize the Downtown Core as the primary
office, retail, and personal service business
hub of the community, distinct from other
commercial areas.
1.2 Create a mechanism to allow business
owners, located on side streets, to expand
their retail operations to the sidewalk and
parking areas.
1.3 Use proactive strategies and create incentives
to redevelop and convert underused properties
in the Downtown Area.
1.4 Encourage mixed use developments in the
Downtown Core with commercial uses on the
ground floor and residential uses on the upper
floor/s (or a combination of both) for two and
three storey buildings or in the rear of one
storey buildings.
Note - See Development Permit Area 4 - Downtown
Core DPA (pg. 57 of this Plan) for greater detail on
guidelines for development in the Downtown Core.
2. Encourage downtown design to
prioritize
Universal
Accessibility
and
social inclusion.
2.1 Incorporate Universal Design Guidelines into
Downtown Core Development Permit Area
Guidelines and Public Realm construction
standards.
2.2 Require
accessible
entryways
between
sidewalk/s and front doors of all businesses.
2.3 Where appropriate, provide priority parking
and drop-off spots for people with special
needs that are: safe, sufficient in number, and
conveniently located.
3. Establish the Downtown Area as a
welcoming destination for people, not
just a thoroughfare for cars.
3.1 Prioritize
working
with
Ministry
of
Transportation and Infrastructure (MOTI)
to achieve the Highway 3 realignment onto
Cook Street.
3.2 Prioritize the pedestrian on Canyon Street.
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99
E. DOWNTOWN VIBRANCY
OCP - FRESHLY PICKED FUTURE
3.3 Provide a range of transportation options
and facilities in the Downtown Core such as
enhanced sidewalks, trails and bike lanes.
3.4 Consider treatment of road rights-of-way
in the Downtown Area to be Public Realm
spaces for people.
3.5 Include soft and hard landscaping of features
that improve the aesthetic and the level of
comfort for pedestrians.
3.6 Provide public amenities (e.g. washrooms
and water fountains) to enhance comfort and
ability to linger in the Downtown Area.
3.7 Consider creating one way traffic patterns
with angle parking in select locations in the
Downtown Area to diversify parking options
and enhance the pedestrian experience.
4. Establish a clear identity and sense of
arrival for the Downtown Area.
4.1 Place emphasis on establishing gateways,
open viewscapes and preserving landmark
buildings in the Downtown Area.
4.2 Explore ways and means of preserving and
enhancing the grain elevators as community
icons.
4.3 Provide additional opportunities for the public
to enjoy the dramatic views of the Creston
Valley and surrounding mountains.
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100
E. DOWNTOWN VIBRANCY
OCP - FRESHLY PICKED FUTURE
5. Create a network of dynamic and
engaging
public
spaces
within
the
Downtown Area.
5.1 Visually link community amenities and Public
Realm spaces into a cohesive whole within
the Downtown Area.
5.2 Establish the Downtown Core as the
community centre from which clear linkages
draw people out to community amenities
and destinations located in other parts of the
community.
5.3 Create Pop-Up Parks on municipally owned
properties and in isolated parking areas to
create spaces for people.
5.4 Create
opportunities
for
residents
and
visitors to interact with design features in the
Downtown Area, including water features,
sculptural art, etc.
6. Ensure development of amenities in the
Downtown Area supports local quality of
life and tourism opportunities.
6.1 Make the Downtown Core a well landscaped,
pedestrian oriented shopping district that
reflects the Creston Valley Brand: "Growing
Together".
6.2 Ensure the downtown restroom and other
public amenities are easy to find.
6.3 Create a range of parking options to support a
vibrant Downtown Area.
6.4 Encourage
the
development
of
visitor
amenities in and around the Downtown Core.
7. Develop future Market Park as the heart
of downtown Creston.
7.1 Transform the future Market Park site into a
distinctive landscape connected to Canyon
Street by treatments such as: street trees,
banners, bollards, gateways, and more.
7.2 Create a series of multi-use nodes within the
future Market Park that are designed to draw
people into, and through, the Park.
7.3 Support the development of the future Market
Park as a hub for tourism with a strong
connection to the larger Valley.
7.4 Work with the Lower Kootenay Band to
establish an area within future Market Park to
celebrate Yaqan Nukiy culture and heritage,
and the relationship between the Lower
Kootenay Band and the Town of Creston.
7.5 Create an enjoyable park-like feel through
landscaping which may include: robust
planting of street trees, indigenous plantings,
a constructed wetland, and more.
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F. VALLEY COLLABORATION
COMMUNITY GOAL
In the Creston Valley, change and development are driven by communication, cooperation, and collaboration
among individuals, community groups, businesses and local governments.
CITIZEN DIRECTION
Success and sustainability for the Town of Creston are inextricably linked to the wellbeing and resilience of
our neighbours in the Creston Valley. Living in and visiting our town should come with a sense of connection
to the communities from Yahk to Lower Kootenay Band to Riondel. Likewise, residents and visitors to those
communities should experience a sense of connection to Creston. Our local Brand: "Growing Together,"
should help to inspire trust and reciprocity among public, private and community stakeholders throughout
the Creston Valley. Wherever possible, change and development in our area should be pursued in ways
that benefit and engage as many area residents as possible. A spirit of positive and open communication,
cooperation and collaboration should create conditions that empower each individual, community group,
business and local government in the Creston Valley to come together to make a difference.
POLICIES
1. Recognize and celebrate the Town of
Creston's contextual placement in the
larger Creston Valley.
1.1 Foster and promote a shared sense of
regional identity for the Town of Creston and
its neighbours from Yahk to Yaqan Nukiy to
Riondel.
1.2 Consider the impact of local land use
management on the region and maintain
awareness of the potential impacts of
neighbouring land uses on the Town.
1.3 Recognize that certain local goals can only
be achieved in the context of broader regional
progress and will require cooperative and/
or collaborative approaches to change and
development.
1.4 Where appropriate, develop shared regional
goals, strategies, and programming as
frameworks for communication, cooperation
and collaboration.
Note - See the Community Goals Section VIII pg.
83-102 of this Plan (Quality of Life & Inclusive
Local Identity, Connectivity, Economic Prosperity,
and, Downtown Vibrancy) for policies that speak
to collaboration and partnerships.
2. Continue to work with the Lower
Kootenay
Band
towards
the
shared
pursuits of reconciliation and relationship
building.
2.1 Recognize the importance of meaningful
reconciliation and explore opportunities to
apply relevant calls to action detailed in the
Truth and Reconciliation Commission of
Canada's final report and the United Nations
Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous
Peoples at the local level.
2.2 Honour and implement the commitments
made in our Memorandum of Understanding
and Friendship with the Lower Kootenay Band
for mutual respect, recognition, and reciprocal
consideration of common interests.
2.3 Continue formal and informal relationship
building between the Town of Creston and the
Lower Kootenay Band at all levels: elected,
administrative, and operational.
2.4 Give consideration to aboriginal land use
values in developments that are significant to
the Creston Valley region.
2.5 Proactively seek opportunities for the use of
traditional Yaqan Nukiy place names in the
Town of Creston.
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102
OCP - FRESHLY PICKED FUTURE
2.6 Cooperate
to
identify
opportunities
to
recognize Yaqan Nukiy heritage and culture
in civic properties, public spaces and events.
3. Continue to cooperate and collaborate
with adjacent local governments and
other community stakeholders to benefit
the Creston Valley.
3.1 Continue formal and informal relationship
building with the Lower Kootenay Band and
the Regional District of Central Kootenay
(RDCK) Electoral Areas "A", "B", and "C."
3.2 Optimize shared services with the RDCK.
3.3 Foster a highly collaborative environment
in which public, private and community
stakeholders work together to achieve a
shared vision for success and sustainability.
3.4 Work with public, private and community
stakeholders to create a stronger shared voice
in advocating for local needs and advancing
local priorities.
3.5 Pursue
initiatives
which
leverage
the
combined resources of the Town of Creston,
the Lower Kootenay Band, the RDCK and
other stakeholders.
4. Facilitate inclusive citizen engagement
opportunities.
4.1 Design public processes for inclusivity and
increase opportunities for all people to be
involved in shaping the community through
participation in public processes.
4.2 Practice proactive, open and transparent
communication
to
facilitate
meaningful
stakeholder and partner engagement in
community decision making processes.
4.3 Encourage and solicit communication and
feedback from the public through a variety of
means and forums.
4.4 Foster conditions which empower all citizens
to actively contribute to community life.
VIII. COMMUNITY GOALS & POLICIES
F. VALLEY COLLABORATION
IX. FUTURE HARVESTS
(IMPLEMENTATION)
104
OCP - FRESHLY PICKED FUTURE
IX. FUTURE HARVESTS - IMPLEMENTATION
INTRODUCTION
The Town of Creston's Official Community Plan
defines the vision of our citizens as we move into the
next decade and beyond. This vision is articulated
in broad objectives and policies that serve as
stepping stones along the journey of community
advancement. Building on this momentum, we've
included this Future Harvests (aka Implementation)
Section of the Plan to inspire actions that have
the potential to turn our community vision into our
community's reality.
The following implementation content is not listed
in order of priority. The order of completion (or
implementation) of the following actions will be a
product of Council's Strategic Plan, yearly budget
constraints and staff resources.
COMMUNITY ENHANCEMENT
PROJECTS
A.
Future Market Park
Secure funding for detailed design and the
construction of future Market Park; a multi-
use greenspace that will serve as the hub and
heart of the Downtown Area in Creston.
B.
Micro greenspace in the Downtown Core
While working towards the development of
future Market Park, create a small and easily
achievable green space in the Downtown
Core which provides opportunity for people to
rest and linger while enjoying our commercial
centre.
C.
Cook Street Highway 3 Realignment
Continue to work with the Ministry of
Transportation and Infrastructure to realign
Highway 3 onto Cook Street, from 10th Avenue
to 16th Avenue, within the next 5 years.
D.
Glaser Drive Trail
Construct a trail network through the Glaser
Drive right-of-way, establishing Connectivity
between North Creston (Helen Street) and
the Mall (Devon Street), in order to provide an
alternative to walking on Northwest Boulevard.
E.
Water Conservation Demonstration Project
Undertake a water conservation demonstration
project at Town Hall to demonstrate water
conservation
techniques
and
successful
approaches
to
on-site
retention
and
management of stormwater.
F.
Municipal Forest Recreation
Partner with community organizations to
develop recreational opportunities on the
lands designated as Municipal Forest.
G.
Arrow Mountain Highway Bypass Lands
Make
application
to
the
Ministry
of
Transportation and Infrastructure (MOTI) for
public and local government access to the
Arrow Mountain Highway Bypass Lands for
wildfire mitigation projects and recreation.
H.
A Better Way to Walk
Prioritize one key sidewalk, in the municipal
work plan and budget, per year to construct
or significantly upgrade (width, lighting, trees,
resting places, etc.).
I.
Community Gardens
Ensure community gardens are a place for
gardeners, residents and visitors alike, while
exploring opportunities for making more space
available for community gardens throughout
the community.
J.
OCP Mural
Install the OCP Mural in a public location
to celebrate the Plan's robust community
engagement process.
K.
Bike Park & Pump Track
Finalize upgrades to the Bike Park and the
construction of the new Pump Track.
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OCP - FRESHLY PICKED FUTURE
IX. FUTURE HARVESTS - IMPLEMENTATION
L.
Trails on Airport Lands
Provide diverse, non-motorized public access
to trails located on the municipally owned
Airport Lands.
M.
Make Parks a Better Place to Play
Enhance the number and diversity of play
structures in local parks.
N.
ICSP
and
OCP
Implementation
and
Celebration
Make funding available to individuals and/or
community organizations to undertake local
initiatives aligned with the ICSP and OCP, and
to celebrate these community processes.
O.
Public Art
Purchase and/or support the installation of
public art in the Downtown Core, with an
emphasis on local art.
P.
Enhance Rotary Park
Enhance the aesthetic of Rotary Park, located
on the corner of 10th Avenue and Canyon St.
Q.
Public Washrooms in the Downtown Core
Provide a downtown restroom space as a
much needed public amenity.
R.
Kootenay Rideshare
Provide
sponsorship
to
the
Kootenay
Rideshare program, which allows people
travelling to and from the Creston Valley to
connect and share rides.
S.
Electric Vehicle Charging Station
Pursue opportunities for the installation of
a Level 3 Rapid Charge, electric vehicle
charging station.
MUNICIPAL HOMEWORK -
Plans, Strategies, Partnerships
and Incentive Programs
A.
Actively Market and Promote the Creston
Valley as a Tourist Destination
Develop a tourism plan and strategy that
promotes the immense selection of tourism
and recreational activities our area has to
offer, while providing an actionable framework
for marketing our story to the region, the
province, and beyond.
B.
Tree Planting Program
Establish a community wide Tree Planting
Program for greening of public and private
lands.
C.
GHG Emission Reduction Incentives
Encourage the construction of energy efficient
buildings in new development and in re-
development projects using available and
emerging policy tools and incentive programs.
D.
Downtown Core Strategy
Develop a Strategy for the Downtown Core
to accommodate the automobile, while
prioritizing
the
pedestrian
by
exploring
parking options, considering one way streets,
considering street closures, providing public
gathering spaces, undertaking enhanced
greening, providing public amenities and
more.
E.
Wayfinding Strategy
Work with neighboring local governments to
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OCP - FRESHLY PICKED FUTURE
IX. FUTURE HARVESTS - IMPLEMENTATION
develop a robust Wayfinding Strategy for the
municipality and the surrounding rural areas,
highlighting local assets and emphasizing key
public and commercial amenities.
F.
Creston & District Economic Action
Partnership & Strategy
Fund and participate in the Kootenay
Employment Services Society led initiative
to establish a shared economic development
function and strategy for the Town of Creston,
Lower Kootenay Band, and Regional District
of Central Kootenay (RDCK) Electoral Areas
"A"," B", and "C".
G.
Access to Goat River Recreational Site
Continue
working
with
the
community
stakeholders
and
the
BC
Ministry
of
Transportation & Infrastructure to secure
public access to the Goat River, with safe
parking and adequate site amenities.
H.
Undertake an Accessibility Assessment
Work
with
community
stakeholders
to
undertake an Accessibility Assessment for the
community.
J.
Multi-Modal Transportation
Develop a Multi-Modal Transportation Plan
that recognizes multiple modes of travel and
promotes enhanced pedestrian, scooter and
cycling opportunities and safety.
K.
Greenways & Trails Master Plan
Adopt the Greenways & Trails Master Plan,
that is being prepared concurrently with this
OCP, as a standalone Master Plan.
L.
Secondary Suites
Create a handbook for inspiration and
information pertaining to the design of
secondary
suites
as
Residential
Infill
Development.
M.
Small House Typology Brochure
Develop a small house typology brochure for
inspiration and information.
N.
Parks Master Plan
Develop and implement a Parks Master Plan
to ensure cohesive, long term parks planning,
reflective of a growing and diverse community.
BL#1968
O.
Climate Action Plan
Develop and implement a Creston Climate
Action Plan to guide the Town in anticipating
and planning for upcoming changes to the
local and regional climate when making
development, policy and program decisions
that affect Creston. BL#1968
DEVELOPER'S HOMEWORK -
Development Approval
Information
Development activity impacts the community, and an
important first step in planning and managing those
impacts is gathering and considering professionally
prepared studies and reports of the impacts. The
I.
Wild Fire Preparedness
Finalize the Town of Creston Community
Wildfire Management Plan.
107
OCP - FRESHLY PICKED FUTURE
IX. FUTURE HARVESTS - IMPLEMENTATION
Town of Creston has limited resources and those
applicants proposing additional development in the
community have traditionally provided information
to justify their proposal.
"Development
approval
information"
means
information on the anticipated impact of a proposed
activity
or
development
on
the
community.
This information is prepared by independent
professionals, at the applicant's expense, and the
reports required will vary depending on a number
of factors including but not limited to the size and
density of the proposed development, the type
and location of the proposed development, the
consideration of known or anticipated problems
related to transportation, servicing, facilities, the
environment and so on. Further procedures and
policies will be established in a subsequent bylaw.
In accordance with Section 485 of the Local
Government Act, the entire Town of Creston
is designated an area requiring the provision
of development approval information in the
circumstances in which a rezoning, development
permit or temporary use permit application is
submitted for consideration. Except as necessary
to consider environmental and hazard conditions
in DPA 1 and 2, development of a single family
residence on a single parcel is exempted from this
requirement.
The conditions and objectives which justify this
designation include, but are not limited to, acquiring
the best and most current information available
to implement the extensive Development Permit
Area designations and their respective conditions,
objectives and guidelines, as well as providing for
integration of other areas in a manner conducive
to the community fabric as expressed through
numerous other statements and polices in this Plan.
NEW APPROACHES -
To Municipal Management of
Growth & Development
A.
Rural Revitalization Approach:
The
Town
will
manage
growth
and
development with a commitment to rural
revitalization for the Creston Valley. This will
involve adhering to the Creston Experience
Principles and living up to the made-in-
Creston definition of small town character
presented in this Plan by:
i.
Preserving and enhancing our rich rural
heritage;
ii. Cultivating an inclusive rural identity
and sense of place;
iii. Retaining and attracting residents,
businesses and investors who value our
rural setting;
iv. Advancing our resource-based economy
without compromising the sustainability
of our rural way of life;
v. Managing the implications of local land
use on our rural ecosystems; and,
vi. Becoming an increasingly proactive,
resourceful
and
self-reliant
rural
community.
B.
Infrastructure Phasing and Full Cost
Accounting:
Explore options for full cost accounting of
growth decisions as a standard practice,
which
includes
Lifecycle
Infrastructure
Costs in accordance with the objectives and
policies contained within this Plan. Major
infrastructure project decisions will be based
upon a phasing and financial plan that:
i.
Accounts for lifecycle costs, including
construction and operation costs;
ii. Is
consistent
with
the
objectives
and policies of this OCP, including
Connectivity and housing types;
iii. Manages impact of new development
on system wide services; and,
iv. Optimizes
the
use
of
existing
infrastructure to minimize financial and
environmental impacts of short and long
term growth.
108
OCP - FRESHLY PICKED FUTURE
IX. FUTURE HARVESTS - IMPLEMENTATION
C.
Density Bonusing
The Town will incorporate new strategies
involving Density Bonusing provisions into
the zoning bylaw to improve the Town's ability
to acquire public areas, green spaces, and
other creative ideas which help move the
vision of this Plan forward. Density Bonusing
can be implemented at time of development
application and/or at time of zoning bylaw
update.
D.
Development Consistency
All new development proposals will be required
to identify how the proposal comprehensively
supports the overall objectives and policies
contained within this OCP; in addition to the
requirements of any applicable Development
Permit Area requirements.
E.
Strategic Property Acquisition
Consider acquisition of privately owned
properties that are unsightly, underutilized and
located in strategic areas of the municipality, in
order to provide public amenities and improve
the community aesthetic.
BYLAWS
To achieve the community's preferred approach to
growth management, the following Town of Creston
regulatory documents will need to be reviewed and
updated as necessary to provide consistency with
this Plan.
A.
The
Town
of
Creston
Development
Approvals Bylaw will be amended to
provide consistency with this Plan.
B.
Amend the Town of Creston Development
Approvals Bylaw to include development
approval
information,
policies
and
procedures in accordance with Part 14 of
the Local Government Act, and to provided
consistency with this Plan.
C.
The Town of Creston Zoning Bylaw will be
amended to provide consistency with this
Plan. Special attention will be paid to the
following:
i.
Consider permitted uses within zoning
categories.
ii. Consider permitted uses for Northwest
Boulevard to better distinguish between
uses that may be more appropriately
located in Industrial areas or the
Downtown Core.
iii. Consider the establishment of maximum
square footage areas for commercial
businesses located outside of the
Downtown Core.
iv. Remove the designation of Industrial
from Residential lands and the Downtown
Area.
v. Consider permitted uses within the
M-1 (Light Industrial) and M-2 (Heavy
Industrial) Zones to permit principle uses
that are appropriate to Creston's small
town character and values.
vi. Support social connectedness and the
creation of Usable Public Open Space
through the Density Bonusing tool.
vii. Review and revise guidelines for home
occupations.
109
development, as appropriate, by
amending the Works & Services
Bylaw.
iii.
Consider the use of Alternative
Development Standards designed to
address: engineering of roadways,
stormwater
management,
and
permitted amounts of non-permeable
surfaces. Alternative Development
Standards may be considered at
time of development application or
amendment of the Works & Services
Bylaw.
F.
The Town of Creston Mobile Home
Parks Bylaw will be amended to provide
consistency
with
this
Plan.
Special
attention will be paid to the following:
i.
Require
form
and
character,
setbacks, landscaping, screening
and provision of Usable Common
Open Space.
G.
The Town of Creston Parks, Trails & Public
Spaces Bylaw will be amended to provide
consistency with this Plan.
H.
The
Town
of
Creston
Boulevard
Beautification Bylaw will be amended
to include elements of the Street Tree
Planting Program, with consistency to this
Plan.
I.
The Watercourse Designation Bylaws
for
Dodd's
(Deadhorse)
and
Glaser-
King Creeks will be amended to provide
consistency with this Plan.
OCP - FRESHLY PICKED FUTURE
IX. FUTURE HARVESTS - IMPLEMENTATION
viii. Consider additional areas or conditions
for Temporary Use Permits (TUPs) for
special, short term uses on commercially
zoned properties.
D.
The Town of Creston Development Cost
Charges Bylaw will be amended to provide
consistency with this Plan, including but
not limited to the following:
i.
Update
the
Development
Cost
Charges
Bylaw
to
reflect
the
additional and new policies of this
Plan.
ii.
Amend
the
Development
Cost
Charges Bylaw and the Five Year
Financial Plan to reflect an optimized
use of infrastructure and a reduced
capital project work plan due to the
establishment of the Residential
Growth Containment Area (RGCA).
iii.
Include Development Cost Charges
for the creation of parks and
other community amenities where
permitted by Provincial legislation.
E.
All Town of Creston infrastructure related
bylaws shall be updated to provide
consistency with this Plan including, but
not limited to: the Works & Services Bylaw,
the Drainage Bylaw, the Liquid Waste
Bylaw, the Sewer Rates & Regulation Bylaw
and the Water Rates & Regulation Bylaw.
Special attention will be paid to the
following:
i.
Develop a set of policies for
infrastructure management including
water, sanitary sewer and storm
water to guide the Works & Services
Bylaw.
ii.
Consider
the
incorporation
of
Green Infrastructure initiatives into
X. MAPS
111
X. SCHEDULE A: LAND USE DESIGNATIONS
0
250
500
750
1,000
125
Meters
Residential Growth Containment Area
Town Boundary
Land Use Designation
Agricultural Land Reserve
Commercial - General
Commercial - Highway Service
Commercial Downtown Core
Industrial
Institutional
Large Land Holdings
Local Area Plan
Municipal Forest
Park
Railway Corridor
Residential
Rural Residential
Water Course
Schedule A:
Land Use Designations
Town of Creston
Official Community Plan
Legend
Note: The lands designated as Rail Corridor on Schedule A
include both the rail corridor and other linear land uses.
Note: The land use designations shown on Schedule A of
this plan extend to the centre line of highways (roads) for
the purposes of property line adjustment and road
dedication and exchanges.
Amended October 14, 2025
112
Town of Creston
Official Community Plan 2017
Development Permit Areas
DPA 1 - Wildfire Protection
DPA 2 - Environmentally Sensitive Area
(Dodd's Creek & Glaser-King Creek)
Town of Creston Boundary
Creeks
Tributaries
Schedule B:
Development Permit Areas 1 & 2
Note: Hatching indicates overlapping DPAs
Note: Tributaries to Dodd's Creek and Glaser-King
Creeks are included in Development Permit Area 2
- Environmentally Sensitive Area.
X. SCHEDULE B: DEVELOPMENT PERMIT AREAS 1 & 2
113
X. SCHEDULE C: DEVELOPMENT PERMIT AREAS 3 - 8
Development Permit Areas
DPA 3 - Multi-Family Residential
DPA 4 - Downtown Core
DPA 5 - General Commercial
DPA 6 - Northwest Boulevard Local Area Plan
DPA 7 - Highway Service Commercial
DPA 8 - Industrial
Town of Creston Boundary
Creeks
114
Town of Creston
Official Community Plan Update - 2017
Residential Growth Containment Area
Town of Creston Boundary
Creeks
Map 1:
Residential Growth
Containment Area
X. MAP 1: RESIDENTIAL GROWTH CONTAINMENT AREA (RGCA)
115
Town of Creston
Official Community Plan 2017
Residential Growth Containment Area
Limit of Water Service Pressure
5 and 10 minute walking radius from
downtown and Creston Valley Mall
Floodplain
Steep Slope (> 25%)
Contours (20m)
Town of Creston Boundary
Creeks
Map 2:
Residential Growth Containment
Area - Development Factors,
Hazards & Constraints
5 minute walk
5 minute walk
10 minute walk
X. MAP 2: RGCA DEVELOPMENT FACTORS, HAZARDS & CONSTRAINTS
116
r---
l \'
I
+-
T -r- ---------
C
r
L-
. [
_i
-----------------
-r ft
Map 3:
Existing Water Infrastructure
Town of Creston
Official Community Plan 2017
Water Points
e Reservoir - Concrete
-
Reservoir - Steel Tank
Well #2
0 Well #3
- Water Pipes
.... Town Boundary
--
,--,
::.
--
tl -
···················---
°'
,._
ti lH I
\\ F
i
J
z
X. MAP 3: EXISTING WATER SERVICE INFRASTRUCTURE
Amended Novemer 18, 2025
117
X. MAP 4: WELL WATER PROTECTION
118-
T -r- ...
-- - -- -
Cr
l
--
-
. [
_i
.
\_ \
-- -
--
--
--
--
/
I
i
[ ......... .
:
1:
-
-
-
I -
-
-
-
-
-
-
................... '
b
Map 5:
Existing Sanitary Infrastructure
Town of Creston
Official Community Plan 2017
- Sanitary Pipes
- Drainage Channels
-- Town Boundary
-
,._
[ t······························---
(I)
::,
C
(I)
z
0
;::i.
::r j
.
: - - -:--
--- -
I 5
X. MAP 5: EXISTING SANITARY INFRASTRUCTURE
Amended Novemer 18, 2025
119
I l
I '
( 1
/
I -
T --:--·····························-------------
- - ----
Map 6:
t_L-
Existing Stormwater
Infrastructure
z
0
:::r .
ro
7
Zlfrl
--<
Town of Creston
Official Community Plan 2017 _
---- Storm Pipes
- Drainage Channels
-
D Storm Ponds
Town Boundary
,._
;;. ..
!l ·····························--
ro
::,
C ro
z
0
:::r
X. MAP 6: EXISTING STORMWATER INFRASTRUCTURE
Amended Novemer 18, 2025
120
I l '
T -r-
-----------
C
r
l
--
. [
_i
z
0
:::r +
ro
Map 6:
Existing Sidewalks and Trails
Town of Creston
Official Community Plan 2017
Sidewalks & Trails
-Sidewalk
-Trail
- Drainage Channels
::.
.... Town Boundary
,._
. ., ..
, ·····························--
\
! j
X. MAP 7: EXISTING SIDEWALKS AND TRAILS
Amended Novemer 18, 2025
121
Town of Creston
Official Community Plan 2017
Existing Major Streets
Proposed Major Streets
Creeks
Town of Creston Boundary
Map 8:
Major Street Network
X. MAP 8: MAJOR STREET NETWORK
122
Town of Creston
Official Community Plan 2017
5min Walk to Schools
10min Walk to Schools
Parks and Schools
General Area for Future Park or Greenspace
Town of Creston Boundary
Points of Interest
1 - Centennial Park
2 - Creston Education Centre
3 - Pioneer Cemetary
4 - Dodd's Creek Park
5 - Millennium Park
6 - Future Market Park
7 - Prince Charles Secondary School
8 - Adam Robinson Elementary School
9 - Burns Park
10 - Kinsmen Park
11 - Community Centre
12 - Schikurski Park
13 - Town Hall
14 - Public Works Yard
15 - Fire Hall
16 - RCMP
17 - Waste Water Treatment Plant
18 - Crawford Hill Reservoir
19 - Schikurski Park Reservoir
20 - Helen Street Reservoir
21 - Hospital
Map 9:
Public Utilities, Facilities and
Open Space
P
5 minute walk
5 minute walk
10 minute walk
X. MAP 9: PUBLIC UTILITIES, FACILITIES, AND OPEN SPACE
XI. APPENDICES
125
OCP - FRESHLY PICKED FUTURE
Glossary of Terms
A
Accessibility Assessment:
an undertaking with key stakeholders and the
community to identify issues and opportunities
to improve accessibility and social inclusion in a
community.
Affordable and Special Needs Housing:
- Affordable Housing is commonly defined as
adequate, suitable housing, typically costing
less than 30% of household income.
- Special Needs Housing typically refers to
housing intended for individuals who require
specific housing designs (e.g. physically
accessible) and/or who require services to
enable them to live relatively independently.
Agricultural Land Commission (ALC):
is an independent administrative tribunal comprised
of appointed Commissioners that are responsible
for administering the ALC Act. The purposes of the
ALC as set out in Section 6 of the ALC Act are:
1. to preservere agricultural land;
2. to encourage farming in collaboration with other
communities of interest; and
APPENDIX A: GLOSSARY OF TERMS
3. to encourage local governments, First Nations,
the government and its agents to enable and
accommodate farm use of agricultural land and
uses compatible with agriculture in their plans,
bylaws and policies.
Agricultural Land Reserve (ALR):
is a provincial zone in which agriculture is recognized
as the priority use. Farming is encouraged and non-
agricultural uses are restricted.
Alternative Development Standards:
represent flexible and innovative approaches to
shaping development in a way that is consistent
with the improved environmental performance of
communities.
Arrow Mountain Highway Bypass:
refers to the tract of land running along the lower
slopes of Arrow Mountain, adjacent to the Town
of Creston which was originally purchased by the
Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure for
future Highway Bypass purposes, and further
defined by Land Title Office Plan 16858.
B
Biomass Energy:
means a renewable and sustainable energy source
developed from organic materials which can be
used as fuel.
126
OCP - FRESHLY PICKED FUTURE
Business Retention and Expansion (BRE) Program:
refers to an action-oriented and community-based
approach to business and economic development
that promotes job growth while supporting and
improving conditions for local businesses.
C
Community Energy and Emissions Inventory (CEEI):
refers to the Community Energy and Emissions
Inventory (CEEI) created by the Province of British
Columbia for each municipality in the Province.
Car-Share Program:
refers to any program that provides people with
vehicles to use on a short term (hourly or daily), as
needed basis, with associated charges for duration
of use, kms driven, etc.
Climate Action Charter:
is a formal document, signed by the majority of
communities in B.C., to commit to the goal of being
carbon neutral and to create complete, compact,
energy-efficient communities.
Co-Housing:
refers to private, attached or detached, self-sufficient
dwellings whose owners also share access to
common indoor and/or outdoor facilities.
Complete Streets:
refer to streets that are designed and operated
to enable safe access for all users, including
pedestrians, bicyclists, motorists and transit riders
of all ages and abilities.
Connectivity:
refers to the directness of links and the density of
connections in a transportation network (including
streets, walking and cycling paths), and the degree
to which the transportation network links people to
their destination.
Creston Valley:
the Creston Valley includes the Regional District
of Central Kootenay (RDCK) Electoral Areas "A",
"B", and "C", the Lower Kootenay Band, the Town
of Creston, and includes all the unincorporated
communities from the USA border north and along
the east shore of Kootenay Lake (Riondel, Crawford
Bay, Boswell, Wynndel, Erickson, Canyon, Lister,
Yahk and West Creston).
Creston Valley Health Working Group (CVHWG) Physician
Recruitment Program:
is a unique and comprehensive, award-winning
Program which addresses multiple layers of health
practitioner recruitment. Facilitated by our Physician
Recruitment Consultant, this program is supported
and funded by RDCK Electoral Areas "B" and "C"
and the Town of Creston.
Creston Valley Wildlife Management Area (CVWMA):
is a rich and biologically diverse area located in
RDCK Electoral Area "C", comprised of over 7,000
hectares of wetland which supports over 300
species of birds, 57 species of mammals, and 29
species of fish, reptiles, and amphibians.
D
Dark Sky Compliant Lighting Guidelines:
are designed to maintain safety, security and
productivity while reducing the degradation of the
nighttime visual environment.
Density Bonusing:
is a zoning tool that permits developers to achieve
more building density, where additional public
benefit is provided. For example, Usable Public
Open Space, affordable housing, trails, and other
amenities as may be determined by Council.
Development Cost Charges:
are fees assigned to new developments to
compensate for the cost of providing additional
service capacity necessary to accommodate growth.
APPENDIX A: GLOSSARY OF TERMS
127
Downtown Core:
Lands designated Downtown Core on Schedule A - Land Use Designations map. The Downtown Core is
specifically illustrated on the following map:
15th Avenue
14th Avenue
12th Avenue
11th Avenue
Cedar Street
7th Avenue
Dogwood
1th Avenue S.
Elm Street
Elm Street
Cook Street
9th Avenue
8th Avenue
7th Avenue
Railway Boulevard
20th Avenue
21st Avenue
Pine Street
Canyon Street
19th Avenue
10th Avenue
Pine Street
Vancouver Street
Canyon Street
Cook Street
16th Avenue South
Cedar Street
Dogwood Street
Elm Street
Cook Street
19th Avenue South
20th Avenue South
CPR Railway
Lilac Street
Pine Street
18th Avenue South
Vancouver St.
Vancouver St.
Lane
Northwest Boulevard
College of the
Rockies
P.C.S.S.
Millennium
Park
16th Avenue
Recreation Centre
OCP - FRESHLY PICKED FUTURE
Downtown Area:
are the areas of Creston usually associated with predominately commercial and institutional activity, including
the Downtown Core Development Permit Area as shown on the following map:
APPENDIX A: GLOSSARY OF TERMS
128
OCP - FRESHLY PICKED FUTURE
E
Employment Lands:
refers to land that could be used for employment
generating activities, on lands designated as:
Downtown Core, General Commercial, Northwest
Boulevard Local Area Plan, Highway Service
Commercial, Industrial and Institutional.
F
Fields Forward:
is a network of public, private, non-profit, and
community stakeholders in the Creston & District
agri-food system. Fields Forward envisions a
vibrant and productive local agri-food system that
builds genuine community wealth by supporting
and sustaining the community's environmental,
aboriginal, social, cultural, economic, and aesthetic
values. This Kootenay Employment Development
Services
initiative
facilitates
communication,
coordination,
collaboration,
and
resource
optimization among network partners.
Forest Edge:
is the boundary between the contiguous forest and
Arrow (Goat) Mountain, and adjacent fields, urban,
or other open spaces. BL#1968
G
Greenhouse Gas (GHG):
refers to an atmospheric gas that contributes to the
planet's greenhouse effect by absorbing infrared
radiation produced by solar warming of the Earth's
surface.
Green Infrastructure:
refers to natural or human-made elements that
provide hydrological functions and processes
for managing stormwater. Green Infrastructure
includes, but is not limited to: parklands, stormwater
management systems (e.g. rain gardens), urban
forests, natural channels, permeable surfaces,
and green roofs. Green Infrastructure can enhance
community safety and quality of life, while mitigating
the requirement for the installation of expensive
infrastructure.
Greenway:
means a corridor of undeveloped land preserved for
recreational use and/or environmental protection.
K
Kootenay Energy Diet:
is a program administered by FortisBC which offers
free energy assessments and an energy coach
to assist homeowners to successfully complete
residential energy retrofits, and access available
rebates for improvements.
L
Land Alteration:
is activities which are commonly referred to as
clearing (the act of vegetation removal from the land
surface); grubbing (the act of root vegetation removal
from beneath the surface of the earth); excavation
(the mechanical removal of earth material); filling
(deposition of earth material placed by artificial
means); grading; and stockpiling. BL#1968
Local Area Plan (LAP):
is a land use planning bylaw for geographic areas
of a municipality where there is a need to provide
a more detailed level of planning and design at a
neighbourhood scale.
Lifecycle Infrastructure Costs:
is the full capital and life time operational and
maintenance costs of an infrastructure component,
including the future cost of system replacement,
that is used to enable local governments to better
understand the long term implications of their
development decisions.
APPENDIX A: GLOSSARY OF TERMS
129
OCP - FRESHLY PICKED FUTURE
M
Market and Non- Market Rental Housing:
- Market Rental Housing refers to various types
of residential units that are offered for rent
at rates established by the local real-estate
market.
- Non-Market Rental Housing refers to various
types of residential units that are offered for
rent that is below local real estate market
values.
Market Park:
is a proposed public space, located adjacent to
the Canadian Pacific Railway (CPR) right-of-way,
spanning the land from the Creston Valley Chamber
of Commerce and Creston Visitor Centre (Armitage
Building) to Extra Foods.
This Public Realm space will: introduce greenspace
into the Downtown Core, provide a permanent
home for the Creston Valley Farmers Market,
accommodate temporary markets and community
events, celebrate the heritage and culture of the
Lower Kootenay Band and Yaqan Nukiy people,
encompass recreational features, and serve as a
social and multi-modal transportation hub for the
Downtown Area.
See Appendix C for conceptual illustrations which
are subject to amendment based on project
development.
Mobile Homes:
are homes built to the CSA Z240 MH standards.
Mobile Home Park:
is a park or community where mobile (CSA Z240) or
modular (CSA A277) homes may be located.
Multi-Modal Transportation:
refers to interconnection of various modes of
transportation including walking, cycling, automobile
and public transit, as well as the interconnection of
rail, highway and air freight systems.
Municipal & Regional District Tax (MRDT) Program:
is an up to three percent tax applied to sales of
short-term accommodation. The MRDT provides
funding for local tourism market programs and
projects. The tax is voluntary and must be
supported by local government and at least 51%
of accommodation providers representing at least
51% of accommodation rooms.
N
Natural Boundary:
means the visible high watermark of any lake, river,
stream or other body of water where the presence
and action of the water are so common and usual
and so long continued in all ordinary years as to
mark upon the soil of the bed of that body of
water a character distinct from that of the banks,
in vegetation, as well as in the nature of the soil
itself. Natural Boundary also includes the edge of
dormant side channels of any body of water, or the
edge of any culvert. BL#1968
APPENDIX A: GLOSSARY OF TERMS
130
OCP - FRESHLY PICKED FUTURE
P
Pocket Neighbourhoods:
a type of planned community that consists of a
grouping of residences, often around a courtyard or
common greenspace with vehicular traffic kept to
the edge of the development in order to promote
a close knit sense of community and an increased
level of interaction among residents.
acting alone or together with another Qualified
Environmental Professional, if:
a) the individual is registered and in good standing
in British Columbia with an appropriate
professional organization constituted under
an Act, acting under that association's code
of ethics and subject to disciplinary action by
that association;
b) the individual's area of expertise is recognized
in the assessment methods as one that is
acceptable for the purpose of providing all or
part of an assessment report in respect of that
development proposal; and
c) the individual is acting within that individual's
area of expertise.
R
Residential Growth Containment Area (RGCA):
is the defined area which establishes the boundaries
for residential growth, utilizing Residential Infill
Development and existing infrastructure. See Map
1 - Residential Growth Containment Area.
Residential Infill Development:
is residential development that occurs in
underutilized or undeveloped land in already
serviced areas, in existing neighbourhoods or
commercial districts.
Revitalization Tax Exemption Program:
means a program by which a local government can
provide municipal tax exemptions for a variety of
rationales, defined in Division 7 of the Community
Charter.
Ride-Share Program:
means a program enabling the organized sharing
of transportation, including carpooling , within a
community and beyond.
Riparian Area:
means a streamside protection and enhancement
APPENDIX A: GLOSSARY OF TERMS
Pop-Up Parks:
means a reclaimed car-designated area (e.g.
parking space, lot or street) for pedestrian use or
Public Realm space.
Point Source and Non-Point Source Pollution:
- Point Source Pollution: is a term used to
describe a single identifiable source of air,
water, thermal, noise or light pollution.
- Non-Point Source Pollution: is a term used to
describe pollution resulting from many diffuse
sources.
Public Realm:
means the network of public spaces that provide
paths for movement as well as places that invite
small and larger gatherings.
Q
Qualified Environmental Professional (QEP):
means an applied scientist or technologist,
131
OCP - FRESHLY PICKED FUTURE
area adjacent to the Natural Boundary of a
watercourse or edge of channel. Riparian Areas
support high levels of biodiversity, protect adjacent
aquatic areas and stabilize stream banks, etc.
Riparian Setback:
means a corridor or space on both sides of a body of
water or seasonal wetland. The corridor is defined
by a distance measured from the Natural Boundary
of a watercourse, or edge of channel. This corridor
is referred to as a Riparian Setback area and is
subject to special land use rules for no-disturb areas
and construction of buildings. See DPA 2 (pg. 51 of
this Plan).
S
Shop Local Program:
is an initiative designed to facilitate retail dollars
circulating in a community by encouraging residents
to shop at local businesses. These programs may
include a variety of approaches including media/
advertising campaigns, promotional events and
more.
Sprawl:
means a development pattern characterized by low-
density single use development in which new growth
appears primarily on previously undeveloped, un-
serviced land at the municipality's edge.
Strategic Community Energy and Emissions Plan (SCEEP):
is a document that evaluates Creston's existing
energy use and Greenhouse Gas (GHG) emissions
with a view to: improving efficiency, cutting emissions,
enhancing community resilience, managing future
risks, and driving economic development.
Street Tree Planting Program:
is a proposed municipally administered program
that would encourage residents to plant trees within
the public boulevard adjacent to their property, in
accordance with tree planting guidelines, or on
private lands.
T
Temporary Use Permit (TUP):
means a special Permit issued by Council that
allows a land use to occur that is not otherwise
permitted within the current zoning for a specified
period of time, and under specified conditions.
U
Universal Accessibility:
means buildings and environments that are
accessible and usable to the greatest extent
possible by all people regardless of age, ability or
status in life.
APPENDIX A: GLOSSARY OF TERMS
132
OCP - FRESHLY PICKED FUTURE
Universal Design Guidelines:
means design standards used to achieve Universal
Accessibility based on the 7 principles of Universal
Design, established by the Centre for Universal
Design, which include:
i.
Equitable use
ii. Flexibility in use
iii. Simple and intuitive use
iv. Perceptible information
v. Tolerance for error
vi. Low physical effort
vii. Size and space for approach and use
Urban Heat Island:
is an urban area that is significantly warmer than its
surrounding rural areas due to human activities and
the modification of land surfaces.
Usable Common Open Space:
is a usable, landscaped space designed for
recreational, leisure and social purposes and
is intended for the private use of the people who
normally reside in the development and their
guests. Usable Common Open Space may
include courtyards, patios, gazebos, gardens with
pathways, children's play areas and other multi-
purpose recreational and/or green spaces.
Usable Public Open Space:
is a landscaped space designed for recreational,
leisure and social purposes and is intended for
use by the general public. Usable Public Open
Space may include, but not limited to, trails and
playgrounds.
W
Water Smart Ambassador Program:
is a program which encourages water conservation
and offers simple methods to use less water and
protect our water supply.
Wayfinding Strategy:
refers to a strategy that enables people to orient
themselves and navigate from place to place with
ease. Wayfinding is a signage system that works
together with other elements of the Public Realm
such as street furniture, public art, landmarks, place
naming conventions, mapping, and digital media.
This makes the community more "legible" for
residents, commuters, and tourists alike.
Wildfire Fuels Mitigation:
is the modification of forest structure to reduce
the accumulation of forest fuel available to burn
in a wildfire and to improve public safety. Wildfire
Fuels Mitigation may include treatments such as
thinning, spacing and pruning of trees, and removal
of needles and woody debris from the forest floor.
X
Xeriscape Landscaping:
means a landscaping method that utilizes water-
conserving techniques, such as the use of drought-
tolerant plants, mulch, and efficient irrigation if
required.
APPENDIX A: GLOSSARY OF TERMS
SMALL TOWN CHARACTER:
Creston's small town character is rooted in our
collective past: the rich heritage of the Yaqan Nukiy
people and the diverse backgrounds of those who
have settled here from around the world. Our
character is defined by our small town values:
care, compassion and cooperation, simplicity and
pragmatism, and a gentle pace of life. Perhaps most
importantly, Creston's identity reflects the character
of the people who live, work and play here. Our
culture is: welcoming, friendly, supportive, creative,
resourceful and modest. Our way of life takes
place against the backdrop of our natural setting:
abundant farmland, woodlands and wetlands,
tranquil waterways and majestic mountain chains.
Our surroundings inspire hope for the future and a
commitment to stewarding our natural resources.
133
Town of Creston
Official Community Plan 2017
The Creston Valley
1:400,000
UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
CANADA
Communities
Creston Valley
RDCK Electoral Areas
Highways
Wetlands
Parks
Water
Lower Kootenay Band
APPENDIX A: GLOSSARY OF TERMS
134
APPENDIX A: GLOSSARY OF TERMS
135
OCP - FRESHLY PICKED FUTURE
Background Document and Reference List
The community has conducted many studies and planning exercises over the last 10 years. These projects
include infrastructure studies addressing water supply, waste water, stormwater, and asset management;
a major sustainability plan; various business studies focusing mainly on the downtown; planning studies
addressing, among other things, wildfire protection, tourism, and climate resiliency; several studies addressing
downtown design guidelines, and more.
The results of these studies are available in public documents and all have been reviewed and gleaned for
relevant details in preparing this OCP. In general, these documents are in line with the values, goals, and
objectives expressed by the community in the course of the OCP community engagement process. As such,
relevant content has been duly incorporated into the objectives and policies of this Plan.
While this list is not exhaustive, it is a testimony to the great work undertaken in Creston to date. This OCP
is another milestone in the long list of community planning efforts that have preceded it.
Asset Management - Town of Creston, May 2015
Business Walk 2015: Post Event Report, 2015, Ministry of Jobs, Tourism and Skills Training.
Citizen Satisfaction Survey, 2013.
Climate Resiliency Workshop: Priority Impacts and Starter Action Plan, Version1: October 2014, updated
January 2015.
Columbia Basin Business Retention and Expansion Project, Report on Creston & District Businesses, Winter/
Spring 2016, Kootenay Employment Services.
Community Profile: Creston, British Columbia, Fall 2015.
Community Wildfire Protection Plan, July 2006.
Creston Community Energy and Emissions Inventory 2010.
Creston Fire Rescue Department: Strategic Plan, 2014.
Creston Market Park Conceptual Design, March 2015.
Creston Valley Age-Friendly Action Plan, 2013.
Creston Valley - Growing Together - Brand Book, 2013, Story & Co.
Creston Valley: Valued Perspectives, Vital Goals; A Review of Creston and District Research, Planning and
Community Development Processes, August 2014, OneDay Community Partners.
Cultivating Creston ICSP & Age-Friendly Action Plan, October 2014.
Cultivating Creston Integrated Community Sustainability Plan (ICSP), February 28, 2013.
APPENDIX B: BACKGROUND DOCUMENT & REFERENCE LIST
136
OCP - FRESHLY PICKED FUTURE
Downtown Creston Strategic Action Plan: Final Report, July 2007.
Downtown Design Guidelines, January 1995.
Northwest Boulevard Local Area Plan, November 2016.
Regional District of Central Kootenay Agriculture Plan, 2011, Brynne Consulting.
Regional District of Central Kootenay A, B, C Community Values Summary, 2013.
Regional District of Central Kootenay, Regional Resource Recovery Plan, 2011.
Sanitary Sewer Master Plan, March 2011, Dayton & Knight Ltd.
Southeast Drainage Basin Study, Draft Report, July 2016, WSP/MMM Group.
Town of Creston Greenways and Trails Master Plan, May 2003, Urban Systems.
Town of Creston Master Drainage Plan, 1983, Dayton & Knight Ltd.
Town of Creston Strategic Community Energy and Emissions Plan (SCEEP), May, 2016
Visitor/Tourism Assessment, February 2006, Roger Brooks, Destination Development.
Water Master Plan, March 2010, Associated Engineering.
Well Source Assessment and Protection Plan, July 2016, Associated Environmental. Consultants Inc.
Youth Engagement Strategy and Action Plan Final Report, March 2015.
Other Reports
Age-Friendly and Disability-friendly Official Community Plans, 2015 Ministry of Community, Sport & Cultural
Development.
Dig It! A Practical Toolkit: How Local Governments can Support Community Gardens, Spring 2009, Herb
Barbolet.
Financial Tools to Support Sustainable Community Development Implementation PIBC Webinar, June 22,
2016.
Firesmart; Protecting Your Community From Wildfire, 2003, Partners in Protection
Healthy Built Environment Linkages: A Toolkit for Design, Planning, Health, October 2014, LEES + Associates.
Small Houses: Innovations in Small-scale Living from North America, 2015, Small Housing BC.
Urban Wayfinding Planning and Implementation Manual, 2013, signage foundation Inc.
APPENDIX B: BACKGROUND DOCUMENT & REFERENCE LIST
137
CONNECTIVITY
Besides a strong visual connection to
downtown, Creston Market Park has
pedestrian connections to downtown via
the end of Canyon Street and the end of
12th Avenue. Pedestrians are also
connected by trail to the Armitage Centre,
Millennium Park, and parks located across
the existing railway crossing.
A vehicle entrance is located in the
middle of the Park with an exit at the Park
(east end) and an emergency exit adjacent
to the Armitage Centre (west end).
NODES and FEATURES
The chief attributes of the existing
(unimproved) site are its location near
the downtown, its size, and its open,
obstacle-free surface.
The proposed Creston Market Park
creates a series of nodes designed to
draw people into, and through, the Park.
Park features include but are not limited
to, a covered patio, a seating plaza,
market stalls, information / education
panels and signs, a public washroom,
picnic areas, and a Yaqan Nukiy
Heritage Park.
PLANTING
The site is currently very stark with very
few plants.
Creston Market Park becomes an
urban park with planting that includes:
street trees along NW Boulevard;
shade trees within the Park;
trees among the parking and market
stalls; an ethnobotanical garden; and
indigenous plantings with a
constructed wetland.
TRAILS
A network of trails within Creston
Market Park encourages visitors to
explore.
The trails are designed to serve not only
pedestrian circulation within the Park,
connecting all the features, but as links to
the downtown, links to a larger looped
trail system that includes trails on the
south side of the rail line including the
dog park, and as an amenity that ties the
Park together.
VIEWS and GATEWAYS
The site is currently not visible from
downtown.
Creston Market Park transforms a
rather unremarkable site into a distinctive
landscape with greater visibility to vehicle
drivers and pedestrians. This begins with
the introduction of street trees, banners,
bollards, and gateways along the edge.
With greater visual presence and clear
access people understand how to stop
and visit.
Looking south-west along Canyon Street
from downtown to the Creston Market
Park site.
GOALS
- create a place of distinction within the community where people
are motivated to stop, linger, and explore the site and the Valley
- create a permanent home for the Farmers' Market and a site for
other outdoor community events
Stop
Stay
Explore
LOCATION
The Creston Market Park site is located immediately south of downtown, be-
tween Cook Street and the railway corridor, and between the Creston Valley
Visitor Centre/Chamber of Commerce (Armitage Centre) and Extra Foods.
DRAINAGE
Rainwater is a precious commodity and
rather than releasing it from the site,
Creston Market Park directs most
runoff to rain-gardens and to a
constructed wetland, where it can
recharge soil moisture and foster plants.
The
constructed
wetland
and
the
ethnobotanical garden form part of
the Yaqan Nukiy Heritage Park.
BACKGROUND
CONSTRAINTS and OPPORTUNITIES
COOK STREET
CANYON STREET
ARMITAGE
CENTRE
QUALITY
FOODS
12th STREET
APPENDIX C: MARKET PARK CONCEPTUAL DESIGN
138
`
ARMITAGE CENTRE
The Armitage Centre anchors one end of the Park. By opening up the east side of the building, the Armitage Centre connects more
directly to the Park, inviting visitors to explore both the Creston Visitor Centre and the Park itself.
Creston Market Park expands visitor facilities outside the Armitage Centre with a Covered Patio and a Seating Plaza,
currently featuring the "three bears" and the Creston Visitor Information sign.
Strong connections to downtown are created at the NW Boulevard street crossing with Street trees, Banners, and Bollards.
Information Panels along the sidewalk overlooking the Valley highlight the agricultural history of the Creston Valley.
A circular Ramp from the sidewalk creates a gradual transition from the downtown street level to the lower level of the Market in the
Park. The ramp also provides emergency access and ingress for market stall set up and take down.
Covered Patio
Patios are lovely spaces that can accommodate
a variety of activities. The covered patio in the
Creston Market Park serves both the Park
and the Armitage Centre and is designed for
both formal and casual uses offering views
across the Valley.
Seating Plaza
Located next to the patio, the seating plaza is de-
signed as a small urban park with views over the
Valley. Besides places to sit, the plaza includes an
information panel on the agricultural history of the
Valley, public art, and a Creston Visitor Information
sign visible to vehicles from all three directions of
approach.
Ramp
The ramp provides a gentle transition from
the upper sidewalk to the Creston
Market Park level, about 6 feet lower,
which can be used as an extension by
vendors during market days.
The ramp also provides vehicle access for
emergencies, Market vendors, and for ser-
vicing the lower level of the Armitage
Centre.
Market Plaza
The market plaza is an outdoor amphi-
theatre-like facility designed for small
performances, gatherings, and seating
for visitors from the market stalls.
Information Panels
Knowledge enriches the visitor's experience
and panels at key locations are an effective
way of presenting information. Among
other things, the panels in Creston
Market Park tell about the natural
history of the Valley, the development of
agriculture, and the Culture of the Yaqan
Nukiy people.
Street Trees / Banners / Bollards
Street trees and banners signal your arrival to the Creston
Market Park. Such an entrance says you have arrived at a
special place, where something is happening that`s calling
you in.
A wide sidewalk lined with bollards creates a sense of safety,
invites pedestrians to the ramp and creates a space for public
benches, small gatherings, and vendors during Market days.
CONCEPTUAL DESIGN
Armitage Centre
Railway crossing
APPENDIX C: MARKET PARK CONCEPTUAL DESIGN
139
MARKET in the PARK
Creston Market Park creates a Market in the Park - a permanent Farmers' Market with approximately 16 Covered Market
Stalls and the capacity to expand to approximately 70 stalls, all in a park-like setting. It features a Market Plaza at the Armitage
Centre end of the site that provides ample opportunities for gathering, performance, and seating.
The park setting is continued with Trails to the proposed Yaqan Nukiy Heritage Park (Yaqan Nukiy Amakis), Millennium Park to the
east, the railway corridor to the south, and the dog park off-leash site to the south-east.
Street Trees along Cook Street bring the Park right to the road. One central vehicle access is provided from Cook Street with an
emergency exit at the Armitage Centre end and one exit at the Yaqun Nukiy Amakis end. An Entrance Gate marks the east end of
the Market. Parking stalls become market stalls during market days.
A Picnic Area and Public Washroom are located at the railway pedestrian crossing.
Entrance Gate
A specially designed vehicle entrance
celebrates your entry to Creston
Market Park. A pedestrian crossing
here helps to bridge the gap between
the Park and downtown and Cook Street
parking. Entrance gates mark the
beginning of a pedestrian precinct--the
Market in the Park.
Covered Market Stalls
The permanent structure of the covered
market stalls create a permanent
presence even on non-market days. The
covers expand the market season.
CONCEPTUAL DESIGN
Market in the Park
A combination of shade trees and parking stalls creates a Market in the
Park. The market space is flexible and can easily be enlarged as
needed by simply relocating traffic barriers.
Market stalls can be located on both sides of the drive or walking aisle.
The north stalls accommodate back-of-truck sales, the south side is for
market stalls only.
Cook Street
Picnic Area & Public Washroom
A picnic area and public washroom serves
the Creston Market Park year round.
The restrooms are accessible from the
Park as well as to pedestrians using the
railway crossing.
This structure would be a convenient
location for the Farmers' Market storage.
Trails
Trails through the Park are intended to
be multi-use, that is, for recreation
(walking, jogging, cycling), for
commuting, for moving from the
Creston Market Park to other
amenities in Creston (such as down-
town and Millennium Park), for move-
ment within the Park, and for taking
visitors through the experience of
visiting the features of the Park and
the information panels.
Opportunities for sitting--resting and
watching other visitors--are located
along the trails.
Street Trees
Street trees create a more pleasant
and safer pedestrian experience, a
more pleasing park landscape, and
help to slow traffic along Cook
Street.
Parking
The parking area at Yaqan Nukiy
Amakis is set amidst trees. It can be
converted into market stalls for small
events and includes six 40 foot long
RV parking stalls.
APPENDIX C: MARKET PARK CONCEPTUAL DESIGN
140
YAQAN NUKIY AMAKIS (Land Where the Rock Stands)
Creston Market Park includes a significant Yaqan Nukiy Amakis Heritage Park , advancing the understanding and appreciation of
the evolving culture of the Yaqan Nukiy People. A Gateway Entrance at the base of 12th Avenue helps connect the site visually to
downtown.
The Yaqan Nukiy Heritage Park includes an Ethnobotanical Garden with plants of cultural significance (such as juniper, cedar,
bitter cherry, wild tobacco, and cattail), a Gathering Circle marking the cardinal directions, and metal Tipi Sculptures. A
Constructed Wetland displays metal Yaqsu?mi‡ (sturgeon-nosed canoes) Sculptures and all are connected by a looped trail
with educational panels outlining the history and culture of the Yaqan Nukiy people.
The adjacent Parking area is set amongst trees and can be used for a small market or outdoor event.
The parking area for RVs and cars has an adjacent Picnic Area sheltered by trees.
Gathering Circle
The gathering circle, honouring the cardinal
directions, is used for story telling and
instruction about the Yaqan Nukiy people
and their history in the Creston Valley.
Ethnobotanical Garden
The Yaqan Nukiy Heritage Park is planted as
an ethnobotanical garden highlighting plants
of cultural significance. Information panels
include common, Latin, and Ktunaxa names of
plants as well as descriptions of common
Ktunaxa uses.
Tipi Sculptures
Tipi sculptures with
information panels illustrate
and outline the traditional
life of the Yaqan Nukiy
people.
Picnic Area
A picnic area adjacent to the
RV parking is not only
convenient but provides
views over the Valley and
into the Yaqan Nukiy
Heritage Park.
.
Constructed Wetland
Surface water from the site is
collected and stored on site in a
constructed wetland. Wetland
plants of cultural significance to
the Yaqan Nukiy people are
featured and highlighted on an
information panel.
CONCEPTUAL DESIGN
Gateway Entrance
A specially designed entrance to
Yaqan Nukiy Amakis-highlights the
Yaqan Nukiy culture, celebrates the
entrance to the Heritage Park, and
creates a visual presence along Cook
Street and at the end of 12th
Avenue.
Yaqsu?mi‡ Sculptures
A metal sculpture of the unique
yuksumit (sturgeon-nose canoe) of
the Yaqan Nukiy people is located
adjacent to the wetland with
information about its traditional
construction and use.
APPENDIX C: MARKET PARK CONCEPTUAL DESIGN
141
3.$7849:!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Parking is located
behind house with back
lane garage, back yard
garage with shared
driveway, or front
garage recessed from
front façade.
2;.$%<(4%!&#+)(:!!!!!!
Fits well into residential
street if designed at the
scale of a large house.
Even a six plex can have
the appearance of a large
single family house.
0.$9($!&#+)(:!!!!!!!!!!!!
Either single family
houses with suites, or
duplexes and triplexes,
'disguised' as a large
house.
Fits into neighbourhood
well, especially on corner
lots.
?#%%.9()@=+49.,#'):!
Smaller houses
(800-1500 sq ft) on
narrow lots, usually 1
1/2 storey with lanes.
Can be clustered into a
"pocket neighbourhood".
3#17(%!!!!!!!!!!!!
"(89&=#+$&##/:
Cottage/ bungalows
clustered around a
common green space
with grouped parking.!
2ccessory!/'(,,849s:
Carriage house, granny
flat in backyard off lane;
either at ground level or
2nd floor above garage.
Provides
affordable
housing and flexibility
for family members.
A($#!,#%!,84(!&#+)():!!
On one side creates
usable side yard and
accommodates
shallower lots; on two
sides creates
rowhouse/townhouse.
APPENDIX D: RESIDENTIAL TYPOLOGIES
142
32789!:)
Parking is very land consumptive. It is a challenge to provide enough parking to serve residents and
businesses, but not so much that it destroys the character, or the walk-ability, of a neighbourhood.
Parking requirements should (1) err on the side of too little parking, rather than too much; (2) consider 1-
way travel lanes and angle parking; (3) break up parking lots into small areas with plantings, espe-cially
street trees; and (4) where possible, require that on-site parking is placed beside or behind buildings so it
does not detract from the street. Finally, it is helpful to remember that streets are very good linear
parking lots. As such, on-street parking may be counted towards satisfying the parking requirements of
any development.
On-street parking has many bene-
fits:
it
slows
traffic,
protects
pedestrians from moving traffic,
reduces demand for on-site park-
ing, decreases amount of parking
lot
pavement
(impermeable
surfaces), and increases side-walk
activity.
On-street
parking
narrows the traffic corridor thereby
reducing the crossing distance of
a roadway, thus making cross-
walks safer for pedestrians.
02!;<
Lanes provide an integral feature
in land development by providing
additional access to property and
increased room for parking. By
removing off-site parking from the
front streets, lanes in turn allow
both narrower lots, and access for
laneway
accessory
dwellings.
Lanes also provide space to
locate utility servicing such as
water, sanitary and storm sewer,
natural gas, electrical power and
other utilities. This in turn reduces
the required street and boulevard
width
which
would
otherwise
contain these services
Street furniture should be provided
within the streetscape at all opportuni-
ties. Seating, whether formal or infor-
mal,
should
be
provided
approximately every 200 ft along a
commercial
or mixed use street,
where possible.
<9@;A208<
Sidewalks should be wide enough to accom-
modate mobility scooters, two people walking
abreast, and baby strollers. This dimension
should be no less than 1.5m on all streets,
where space is available.
On streets with mixed-use or commercial
use, sidewalks should be wider depending
on the building setback, and the addition of
street
fur-niture,
outdoor
displays,
and
seating.
<=7;;=)=7;;<
Street tree species and spacing should be
selected to create a full street canopy. Such
enclosures re-duce the apparent width of the
road, create a sense of small town scale,
and mitigate summer heat.
Where possible, Street trees should be
planted in medians between the street and
sidewalk to create a greater sense of
pedestrian safety.
Consider the use of boulevards and other
street
features
for
storm-water
management, thereby minimizing the need
for road storm-drains.)
<=7;;=)>?7!9=?7;)
APPENDIX E: SIDEWALKS, STREET TREES & FURNITURE
143
What they do:
Rain Barrels/Cisterns collect and store rainwater from
hard surfaces allowing for its reuse. The collected
water is often used to water gardens and lawns but is
not suitable for potable uses. By storing and allowing
reuse, a cistern can help reduce volumes and slow
flows of rainwater entering the municipal storm drain
and receiving water bodies. Cisterns come in two typical
varieties, Above Ground and Inground (Buried), which
can be classified as:
Small Capacity
Hold up to 2,500 litres and are typically used for residential/
single-family homes. Typically low tech systems used for gravity
fed irrigation.
Medium Capacity
Hold up to 10 000 litres in tanks constructed of polyethylene or
a similar material. These come as above ground or inground
systems that are often installed with filtration and pumps
for pressurized irrigation systems. Found in residential,
commercial, institutional, and industrial developments.
Large Capacity
Hold over 10 000 litres in a series of connected tanks or large
custom built storage tanks. These are typically limited to large
institutional, commercial, or industrial projects with a large water
demand.
APPENDIX F: ON-SITE STORMWATER MANAGEMENT
144
What they do:
Infiltration chambers are underground tanks or chambers
with permeable bottoms and sides that are designed to
slowly release water into the ground over time. They help to
reduce the volume of water being delivered to storm drains
and streams. As infiltration chambers are underground
they allow for usable spaces on top of them. Typically
surface treatments over infiltration chambers are limited to
lawn, low shrubs/groundcovers, or hardscape. Trees are
not usually suitable for planting on or around infiltration
chambers. Infiltration chambers are comonly found in two
varieties:
Rock Infiltration Chamber
A rock infiltration chamber / trench is an underground water
storage facility constructed with course aggregate. Water fills the
pore spaces between the aggregate, and the facility will typically
be designed to exfiltrate water into the surrounding soil.
Open Infiltration Chamber
An open infiltration chamber / infiltration tank is an underground
water storage facility constructed with manufactured modular
structures that create large void spaces for temporary storage
of stormwater, allowing it to infiltrate into the underlying native
soil. Structures typically have open bottoms, and perforated side
walls. Water fills the void spaces, and the facility will typically be
designed to exfiltrate water into the surrounding soil.
APPENDIX F: ON-SITE STORMWATER MANAGEMENT
145
What they do:
Rain gardens are landscape depressions meant to capture
and infiltrate water. Rain gardens provide both volume control
and pollutant treatment of runoff. Removal of Total Suspended
Solids (TSS) and pollutants (such as heavy metals and
petroleum products) is provided by the soil layers, surface
ponding, and vegetation. The bottom of rain gardens should
always be planted. Covering the bottom of a rain garden with
rock reduce infiltration and pollutant removal potential.
APPENDIX F: ON-SITE STORMWATER MANAGEMENT
146
147
Appendix "1" to
Consolidated Bylaw No. 1854
INDEX OF AMENDING BYLAWS
Bylaw #1887 ................................................ Adopted July 16, 2019
Bylaw #1889 ................................................ Adopted July 16, 2019
Bylaw #1894 ................................................ Adopted September 17, 2019
Bylaw #1886 ................................................ Adopted April 14, 2020
Bylaw #1935 ................................................ Adopted June 14, 2022
Bylaw #1953 ................................................ Adopted June 28, 2022
Bylaw #1968 ................................................ Adopted June 13, 2023
Bylaw #1976 ................................................ Adopted August 22, 2023
Bylaw #2005 ................................................ Adopted April 23, 2024
Bylaw #2010 ................................................ Adopted January 14, 2025
Bylaw #2037 ................................................ Adopted October 14, 2025
Bylaw #2041 ................................................ Adopted November 18, 2025
NOTE TO USERS
"WHEREAS each bylaw consolidation shall
be proof, in the absence of evidence to the
contrary, of the original bylaw, of all bylaws
amending it and of the fact of passage of the
original and all amending bylaws", pursuant
to
'Authority
to
Consolidate
Municipal
Bylaws No. 1533', which was adopted on
the 11th day of June, 2001.