Official Plan for the Urban Areas of the Township of Champlain (By-law 2012-85)
Champlain, Ontario
· adopted 2013-02-13
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Official Plan
for the Urban Areas
Township of Champlain
TOWNSHIP OF CHAMPLAIN
BY-LAW NO. 2012-85
WHEREAS Section 26.(1) of the Planning Act R.S.O. 1990, Ch. P.13 ,as amended,
requires the Council of the Corporation that adopted an Official Plan to, not less frequently than
every five years, after the plan comes into effect, review and revise the Official Plan;
AND WHEREAS Section 17(22) of the Planning Act R.S.O. Ch. P.13, as amended,
enables the Council to pass a by-law to adopt all or part of an Official Plan;
AND WHEREAS Council held a Special Meeting, open to the public, on
the 9th day of November, 2011, in accordance with Section 26(3) of the Planning Act, R.S.O.
and Section 17(15)(d) to discuss the revisions that may be required;
AND WHEREAS Council held an Open House on October 23, 2012, in accordance with
Section 17(16) of the Planning Act, R.S.O. for the purpose of giving the public an opportunity to
review and ask questions about the proposed Official Plan;
AND WHEREAS Council held a Public Meeting on November 14, 2012, in accordance
with Section 17(15) and 17(19.2) of the Planning Act, R.S.O., for the purpose of giving the
public an opportunity to make representations in respect of the current proposed Official Plan;
NOW THEREFORE the Council of the Township of Champlain enacts as follows:
1. By-law No. 7-92 (Village of L'Orignal Official Plan) and Resolution 85-50 (former Official
Plan of the Town of Vankleek Hill), and all amendments thereto, are hereby repealed;
however, they will remain in effect until such time as the United Counties of Prescott and
Russell has approved the new Official Plan for these Urban Areas.
2. The Official Plan for the Urban Areas of the Township of Champlain, consisting of the
attached text and Schedules, is hereby adopted.
3. The Clerk of the Township is authorized and directed to make application to the United
Counties of Prescott and Russell for approval of the aforesaid Official Plan for the Urban
Areas of the Township of Champlain.
4. This By-law shall come into force in accordance with the provisions of the Planning Act.
ENACTED AND PASSED THIS 13th day of February, 2013
__________________
Gary J. Barton
Mayor
__________________
Jean Thériault
Chief Administrative Officer / Clerk-
Treasurer
OFFICIAL PLAN FOR THE URBAN AREAS
OF THE TOWNSHIP OF CHAMPLAIN
February 2013
Prepared for
Township of Champlain
948 Pleasant Corners Road East
Vankleek Hill, Ontario
K0B 1R0
Prepared by
J.L. RICHARDS & ASSOCIATES LIMITED
Consulting Engineers, Architects & Planners
864 Lady Ellen Place
Ottawa, Ontario
K1Z 5M2
JLR16690-291
JLR 16690-291
J.L. Richards & Associates Limited
December 2012
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OFFICIAL PLAN FOR THE URBAN AREAS
OF THE TOWNSHIP OF CHAMPLAIN
- TABLE OF CONTENTS-
1.0
PURPOSE OF THE OFFICIAL PLAN ..............................................................................1
1.1
Goals - Establishing a Community Vision.............................................................1
1.2
Objectives..............................................................................................................4
1.3
Building a Liveable Community .............................................................................6
1.4
Economic Strategy ................................................................................................6
2.0
THE PLANNING FRAMEWORK ......................................................................................8
2.1
Provincial Policy Statement...................................................................................8
2.2
United Counties of Prescott and Russell Official Plan...........................................9
3.0
MANAGING GROWTH...................................................................................................10
3.1
Servicing..............................................................................................................11
3.2
Transportation .....................................................................................................13
3.3
Environmental Protection ....................................................................................14
4.0
LAND USE......................................................................................................................16
4.1
The Village Core..................................................................................................17
4.2
Village Commercial .............................................................................................18
4.2.1 Special Exceptions ................................................................................19
4.3
Residential...........................................................................................................20
4.3.1
Residential - One and Two-Unit (Low Density).....................................21
4.3.2
Residential - Ground-Oriented Attached (Low Density)........................21
4.3.3
Residential - Apartments (Medium Density) .........................................22
4.4
Institutional .........................................................................................................22
4.5
Industrial Lands ...................................................................................................23
4.6
Parks, Open Spaces & Pathways .......................................................................23
4.7
Development Lands ............................................................................................27
5.0
HERITAGE RESOURCES..............................................................................................30
6.0
VILLAGE DESIGN GUIDELINES...................................................................................33
6.1
Subdivision Design for Residential Development................................................33
6.2
Streetscape Design Along Roads .......................................................................... 35
OFFICIAL PLAN FOR THE URBAN AREAS
OF THE TOWNSHIP OF CHAMPLAIN
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7.0
IMPLEMENTATION ............................................................................................................ 36
7.1
Site Plan Control By-law ......................................................................................... 37
8.0
CONSULTATION AND APPLICATION REQUIREMENTS ............................................. 39
8.1
Pre-Consultation...................................................................................................... 39
8.2
Development Applications: Required Information and Material........................... 39
8.3
Development Applications: Additional Studies and Assessments....................... 39
- SCHEDULES -
Annexe A1 - Schedule A1, Urban Area - Former Village of L'Orignal
Affectation des Sols - Land Use Designation
Annexe A2 - Schedule A2, Urban Area - Former Village of L'Orignal
Ressources Naturelles - Natural Resources
Santé et Sécurité Publiques - Public Health and Safety
Transports - Transportation
Annexe A3 - Schedule A3, Urban Area - Former Village of L'Orignal
Distances de séparation - Separation Distances - Ivaco Rolling Mills
Annexe B1 - Schedule B1, Urban Area - Former Village of Vankleek Hill
Affectation des Sols - Land Use Designation
Annexe B2 - Schedule B2, Urban Area - Former Village of Vankleek Hill
Ressources Naturelles - Natural Resources
Santé et Sécurité Publiques - Public Health and Safety
Transports - Transportation
OFFICIAL PLAN FOR THE URBAN AREAS
OF THE TOWNSHIP OF CHAMPLAIN
JLR 16690-291
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February 2013
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1.0
PURPOSE OF THE OFFICIAL PLAN
The Township of Champlain comprises the Ward's of Vankleek Hill, L'Orignal, Longueuil, and
West Hawkesbury. The Township of Champlain has deemed it appropriate to review and
update the Official Plans for the Villages of L'Orignal and Vankleek Hill and consolidate these
into one Official Plan. This Official Plan will be known as the "Official Plan for the Urban Areas
of the Township of Champlain".
This Official Plan (otherwise referred to as the Plan), developed under the policies of the 2005
Provincial Policy Statement (2005 PPS) must be read in conjunction with the United Counties of
Prescott and Russell (UCPR) Official Plan.
The Official Plan contains goals, objectives and policies established primarily to manage and
direct physical change and the effects on the social, economic and natural environment for the
urban areas of the Township of Champlain.
The Plan guides the long-term growth and day-to-day land use planning decisions for these
villages. The Plan was initiated in 2011, as part of the Five Year Review of these Official Plans,
as well as in response to Council's desire to update policies about how these areas should
develop. Further, the policies will review municipal infrastructure and development lands based
on the Upper Tier's (UCPR) settlement area boundaries for these areas; which were determined
based on population and employment projections.
1.1
GOALS - ESTABLISHING A COMMUNITY VISION
The following visionary goals are the foundation of this Plan. These goals build upon local,
regional, and provincial documents, and together create the vision.
GOAL 1: TO CREATE A LIVEABLE AND SUSTAINABLE COMMUNITY
These urban areas value their strong community, historic character, and unique natural
environment. These areas seek to achieve a sustainable, healthy balance between protecting
the environment, maintaining a viable economic base, and promoting the community way of life.
The revitalization of built-up areas within these urban areas, more specifically their core (Village
Core) is important to these communities.
There is a desire to maintain the village way of life, ample open space, community gathering
spaces, and surrounding agricultural activities that are unique to these areas and ensure that
growth occurs in a planned, managed way. The goal is to achieve a balance that embraces the
rural way of life with the convenience of the nearby urban amenities.
These urban areas should be a place where all age groups and income levels can live and can
have access to uses and services that meet their day to day needs. The urban areas should
support a mix of uses, housing types and tenure, services and facilities that should cater to all
income levels and age groups. The goal is to provide residents within these urban areas, the
possibility of aging in place including the ability to live, work, and play through the life cycle.
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Businesses in the Village Core areas should attract and be supported by the community and
visitors. These businesses should reflect the 'village character', both in size and in the services
that are provided to residents and visitors.
Development should occur in a manner consistent with the village lifestyle and pace of life. All
development should be supported with adequate servicing, transportation, and economic
development strategies to ensure that growth is sustainable and contributes to the life of the
community. New development should cater to the range of housing, services and facilities
required by children, adults, and seniors. Commercial development should respect the area's
desire to revitalize their main street areas. This development should be in keeping with the
village-scale and historic character present in these urban areas and in the surrounding
communities of Eastern Ontario.
GOAL 2: TO PROTECT AND ENHANCE THE HISTORIC VILLAGE CHARACTER
These urban areas should maintain the pace of life, sense of community, friendly atmosphere,
and scale of development that reflects the historic past, rural small-town character and heritage
architecture. These area's rural and historical roots should be reflected in future development.
New development should incorporate the historic (and walkable) grid pattern with modern
design and operating modifications to control traffic.
These urban areas should have focal points in the heart of their Village and along the Ottawa
River reflecting the existing historical themes evident in the community. Village Core areas and
village entrances should be developed as a showcase of the pride in the community's history
and culture. Community Improvement Plans (policies) which support revitalization of the Village
Core areas, including redevelopment of brownfield sites, should be developed that will balance
the commercial, residential, and pedestrian needs of the area while recognizing fabric and use
of the street.
The Ottawa River is a treasure. Together with the surrounding greenspace, it has great
potential to serve as a central focal point in L'Orignal. As part of the Village Core, the River
could be enhanced through increased accessibility and amenities.
Visitors should be welcomed to the area's vibrant core, its attractive businesses, abundant
natural open spaces and pathway systems, and historic built environment. The Plan's goal is to
create a friendly and safe pedestrian environment such that the historic core and natural
environment is accessible for all residents and visitors.
GOAL 3: TO PROTECT THE NATURAL ENVIRONMENT AND INCORPORATE
CONSTRAINTS INTO THE PLAN
The natural environment, surrounding agricultural lands and the ability to easily enjoy open
spaces, forests, creeks and the river help define the area's rural character. The protection of
these natural areas, floodplains, drainage systems, and source water is a strong desire of the
community both to safeguard the environment and maintain the character of these areas. The
residents of these urban areas should participate as active stewards of the environment by
seeking to minimize their environmental impact or carbon footprint, educating the public and
creating partnerships with the UCPR, Conservation Authority and other environmental groups.
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In existing natural areas, there should be a balance between access and the protection and
maintenance of the natural environment. Opportunities should be explored for funding or grants
or other means to finance improvements such as the creation of natural paths, increased natural
areas, and the creation of a system of connected green corridors as a means to enhance the
enjoyment of the areas while protecting the natural environment. Existing parks and natural
areas, such as the waterfront, the marina, and the Vankleek Hill Agricultural Fair lands, should
be maintained and protected as a destination for residents and visitors. The Ottawa River and
surrounding floodplains are very important natural features in L'Orignal and should be protected
from incompatible or intrusive development.
Protecting the natural environment, aquifers, source water and floodplains affecting the Villages
should be a priority when evaluating development. Floodplains should be protected from
development and maintained as important green spaces. The extensive agricultural lands
surrounding these areas, which are protected by provincial policy, will help limit development
outside the village boundaries. Environmentally friendly, forward looking development and
innovative technology should be encouraged.
GOAL 4: TO EXPAND AND MAINTAIN TRANSPORTATION AND INFRASTRUCTURE
The area's reliance on the automobile to connect to places outside of the communities places
seniors and youth at a disadvantage. The availability of transit or shared modes of
transportation will allow young people and older people to travel to urban areas for education,
employment, and services while still living in the area. The Township will be supportive of
initiatives to expand and maintain transportation and infrastructure at a regional level including
transit or shared modes of transportation.
Within the Village Core areas, making alternative methods of travel, such as walking and cycling
more attractive can minimize car use. Existing sidewalks and multi-use pathways are available
for pedestrians and cyclists throughout the area. Improvements and expansion to this system
will continue, as funding becomes available or as part of development, to ensure that these
areas are connected with a network of village sidewalks and/or widened shoulders. Outside the
Villages, the Township supports the creation of dedicated bicycle lanes that link L'Orignal and
Vankleek Hill to other communities which would increase travel options available beyond that of
only automobile usage.
As part of development applications, the Township may require the preparation of a
Transportation Impact Study to confirm the adequacy of existing sidewalks, pathways, roads
and transit, and to ensure that new development does not overload the existing infrastructure
and conforms and integrates with the existing grid infrastructure in place in the area.
GOAL 5: TO CREATE AND PROTECT OPEN SPACE, RECREATION AND COMMUNITY
SERVICES
To capitalize on the beauty of the Ottawa River area (L'Orignal) and promote its parklands,
respite areas, multi-use pathways, and community facilities along this corridor. Open Space
areas should be designed to provide a safe, accessible area all residents can enjoy. A multi-
season pathway for walking, cycling, and cross-country skiing exists throughout the area. The
Village Core areas and neighbourhoods should be connected to recreational areas and key
community facilities with sidewalks, roads, and pathways. Within the Villages, the existing
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pedestrian and cycling friendly network of pathways and/or sidewalks and crosswalks will be
protected and improved with availability of funding. Such an approach will assist residents in
pursuing a healthy, active lifestyle.
The creation and expansion of community facilities such as arena, pools, and parks will help
ensure that there are recreational facilities and multi-use parks for all seasons. The Vankleek
Hill Agricultural Society is a tourist-destination fairground. Facilities should exist for all age
groups, especially for underserved segments such as youth aged 12 - 16 and seniors. The
waterfront areas should be protected and enhanced for bird watching and other passive
recreational activities.
These areas should work to attract and support more community services, such as a medical
clinic and daycare centre, so that resident needs can be accommodated in the Village. The
area should grow in such a way as to sustain local schools.
These areas have the potential to be a destination for the region - fairs and other tourism
activities to draw people. These areas have a vibrant community with local institutions that
should be protected and fostered with supportive land uses and growth policies.
GOAL 6: TO ENSURE SUSTAINABILITY OF SERVICING (Groundwater, Wastewater and
Stormwater Systems)
To ensure that the quality and quantity of the area's water is sustained over the long term.
Principles of water conservation will be promoted and incorporated into day-to-day activities.
New development should utilize services such as municipal water and sewer, where available
and feasible. New development should not grow beyond a safe threshold for the available
resource base as defined by the appropriate environmental studies. Additionally, new
development should incur all expenses required to upgrade the necessary systems to maintain
existing quality and services and be supported by studies.
1.2
OBJECTIVES
The following objectives were derived from the six visionary goals.
Housing
To provide a mix of housing types for all incomes and age groups
To plan development that reflects the existing grid pattern, lot sizes and densities
To provide village-style development
Heritage
To ensure that future development reflects the village's rural and historical roots
Economic/Commercial
To create an environment for businesses that attracts residents and visitors
To encourage businesses that reflect village character in size and type
To encourage businesses that revitalize the Village Core
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To establish focal points in the heart of the villages
To focus business development within the Village Core areas
To balance commercial, residential and pedestrian needs while recognizing the historic
fabric and uses in the villages
To develop sites of regional interest
Open Space, Recreation and Community Services
To capitalize on the beauty of the Ottawa River and ensure that it is a focal point for the
village
To ensure that there are amenities along the Ottawa River such as canoe launches,
fishing points and park areas
To create a friendly and safe pedestrian environment and to increase accessibility
throughout the villages
To support the multi-seasonal recreational pathway system
To support linking the village core and neighbourhoods to recreational areas and key
community facilities
To assist residents in achieving a healthy active lifestyle
To support the Vankleek Hill Agricultural Society lands (i.e., fairgrounds)
To ensure a full range of uses and recreational facilities for all seasons and age groups
Natural Environment
To protect natural areas, floodplains, drainage system and source water
To promote programs so that residents can be active stewards of the natural
environment
To provide access to natural areas for residents and visitors in balance with protection
and maintenance of the natural environment
To require environmentally sustainable design principles in development
Servicing
To ensure that any growth or change is developed on the basis of full municipal
services, where available and feasible
To ensure that new development does not put groundwater at risk
To ensure that the cost of new services are paid by the users
Transportation
To maintain and expand its sidewalks, pathways, and roads within the range of available
funds
To ensure that development does not overload the existing infrastructure
To support the County with its initiatives in improving linkages between L'Orignal,
Vankleek Hill, and the surrounding transportation network (i.e., through bicycle lanes to
improve accessibility for seniors and youth)
To make walking and cycling a priority in the Village Core areas
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1.3
BUILDING A LIVEABLE COMMUNITY
The Plan strives to 'create a liveable and sustainable community' in accordance with the Plan's
goals and objectives. The UCPR Official Plan establishes a set of goals and objectives for
creating a more compact, efficient, affordable and environmentally healthy communities. At the
core of this Plan is the desire to make the area a green, environmentally sensitive, healthy and
active area and a place where people can live, play and work. Smart growth, healthy
communities and creative community design are ways to address liveable and sustainable
development particularly at the neighbourhood level. Some of the initiatives designed to
achieve this vision are described in the chart below.
LIVEABLE COMMUNITY INITIATIVES
Land Use Policies
Establish a Village Core (with flexible range of uses) in the centre of the
villages and within walking distance of many neighbourhoods.
Reduce the parking requirements in the Village Core areas.
Accommodate corner stores and other neighbourhood uses in the villages so
that residents do not have to travel far to meet their daily needs.
Accommodate a range of housing types and tenure, including attached
homes to provide housing options for a variety of family types and ages.
Parks
Maintain existing parks and require parkland as part of new developments
where their location would provide an equitable distribution throughout the
villages to provide every resident with equal opportunities for active living.
Multi-Use Pathway
Recognize and support the existing pathway system that provides residents
with non-motorized methods to reach their destinations and, thereby reduce
their greenhouse gas emissions.
Identify the ways and means to initiate new and maintain existing pathways.
Initiate discussions with the County's Economic Development Department
and the Agricultural Society to improve linkages between these lands, the
core and parks.
Open Space Network
Identify existing open space corridors as a way to provide recreational
opportunities that are compatible and contribute to healthy lifestyles.
Environmental Protection
Provide a sustainable balance between environmental protection and
development over time. Work with existing residents to protect and enhance
environmental features and provide guidance for areas that may develop in
the future to ensure the long-term health of the environment.
Cycle Routes
Identify cycle routes that better integrate with the multi-use pathways, making
it easier for people to travel locally in a non-motorized manner.
Servicing
Take advantage of existing municipal services without going beyond their
threshold.
Heritage
Raise awareness of the value of the existing built environment and heritage
landscape and encourage new uses for old buildings and protection of areas
with significant landscape features.
Community Gardens
Raise awareness of the importance of local food production, community food
security and its impact on energy cost by supporting local groups, etc. during
fairs and other public gathering events.
Economic Strategy
Ensure that there is sufficient land designated and available for future
employment.
1.4
ECONOMIC STRATEGY
The economic strategy is based on the collective view that these urban areas should be
complete, dynamic, sustainable and healthy communities, not just a bedroom community. With
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slow yet steady growth, locations are needed to support future employment-generating
businesses. In this way people, if they choose, can live, work and play in their community.
Economic Directions
The desire to be a complete community generates a number of economic policies, which direct
that:
1. The best place to provide a significant number of jobs is in the Trade and Industry Area
(UCPR OP) lands. Although it is recognized that these lands have remained
underdeveloped for a long time, with a servicing strategy and a better mix of permitted
uses; these lands would be more likely to develop in the future.
2. The Village Core areas for these urban areas are seen as places where business should
co-exist with other uses, including residential uses. These businesses should serve
residents, visitors and the surrounding farming community while conserving and adding
to the historic character of the Core areas. Over time, the Core will evolve into a
heritage-style destination for personal services, leisure and tourist activities.
3. The Village Commercial designation should provide a wide range of commercial
functions that are dependent on good road access and employment opportunities that
meet the needs of the surrounding community.
The best way to implement these economic directions is by using land use designations in
the Plan and establishing an association of local businesses that could lead the economic
strategy. Local businesses should investigate the merits of forming an association, such as
a Business Improvement Association (BIA), in order to implement this strategy and to help
market these urban areas as a place to shop and do business.
Future Business Directions
To ensure that future businesses work towards a common economic purpose for these
urban areas, the economic strategy directs that:
1. The agricultural sector should build upon and promote local foods producers and
linkages to farmer's markets, restaurants and retailers through a local grown type
initiative.
2. The Township will support Prescott-Russell in their initiatives to promote the rural
tourism industry.
3. The Township will support Prescott-Russell's initiatives to improve transportation
linkages to facilitate business networking within the UCPR and its farming
community.
4. Public School Boards and the College should develop partnerships to ensure that
programs are available to meet the needs of local businesses and to ensure that on-
the-job training programs such as co-op programs are available to help train
students.
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2.0
THE PLANNING FRAMEWORK
The Plan is based on policy direction contained in the Provincial Policy Statement - PPS (2005)
and the UCPR Official Plan, both of which are enabled through the Ontario Planning Act. The
following sections summarize the planning framework.
2.1
PROVINCIAL POLICY STATEMENT
Ontario last issued a Provincial Policy Statement in 2005, which provides direction on matters of
provincial interest. This interest focuses on the management of growth based on the efficient
use of land and development. Specifically, healthy, liveable and safe communities can be
achieved by:
Accommodating an appropriate range and mix of residential, employment (including
industrial, commercial and institutional uses), recreational and open space uses to meet
long-term needs.
Avoiding development and land use patterns which may cause environmental or public
health and safety concerns.
Avoiding development and land use patterns that would prevent efficient expansion of
settlement areas.
Promoting cost-effective development standards to minimize land consumption and
servicing costs.
Providing a good mix and range of employment lands (including industrial, commercial
and institutional uses) to meet long-term needs.
Ensuring that necessary infrastructure and public services are/will be available to meet
current and projected needs.
Further, the Provincial Policy Statement declares that 'settlement areas' such as these urban
areas be the focus of growth. It states that:
Development patterns use lands, resources, infrastructure and public service efficiently.
Impacts on air quality and climate change be minimized.
Opportunities for intensification and redevelopment be identified.
Phasing policies be established to ensure orderly growth.
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2.2
UNITED COUNTIES OF PRESCOTT AND RUSSELL OFFICIAL PLAN
The UCPR Official Plan provides the planning context for these urban areas and implements
provincial policy. These urban areas are designated as "Urban Policy Area" which is intended
to be the focus of growth, a central place that provides residents with access to services and a
place that provides for the daily needs of residents living in the community and surrounding
area.
The majority of land surrounding these areas is within the Rural Policy Area or Trade and
Industry Policy Area. These land use designations permit agricultural uses and employment
related uses, respectively. The intent of the agricultural policies is to protect farmland and to
ensure that incompatible uses, which may conflict with agricultural activity, are not established.
The intent of the trade and industry policies is to provide economic development opportunities
outside of the Urban Policy Area.
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3.0
MANAGING GROWTH
This Plan is based on a 20 year planning period, as per the UCPR Official Plan.
Policies:
1. When considering a development application within the Urban Areas, Council will be
guided by the goals, objectives and policies of this Plan as well as the UCPR Official
Plan policies and considerations such as:
a. Watercourse setbacks will be based on the Fish Habitat and River Corridors
policies of the UCPR Official Plan. The UCRP Official Plan describes the EIS
and its scope.
b. Schedule C of the UCPR Official Plan identifies unstable slopes and organic
soils. Development and setback shall be established as per UCPR Official Plan
Policy.
c. Schedule C of the UCPR Official Plan identifies the Ottawa River as a water
course with flood plain. Development shall be guided by the floodplain policies
as contained in the Hazardous Lands, Flooding and Erosion section of the Plan.
d. New development shall be guided by stormwater management guidelines
contained in the Surface Water Management Plans section of the Plan.
e. Measures to protect existing aquatic habitat and potential locations for stream
improvements, removal of fish barriers, riparian planting shall be identified
through the development review process.
f.
Efforts shall be made to maintain streams and avoid diversion into a culvert or
pipe where possible.
g. Policies to protect natural features will be implemented through: i) the
development review process, ii) stormwater management, iii) park improvements,
iv) improvements to public spaces along the Ottawa River, and v) individual and
collective stewardship practices.
2. To enhance the greenspace system in these urban areas, Council will:
a. Maintain public ownership of the parks and municipal properties and expand the
public ownership of land along the Ottawa River through mechanisms such as
parkland dedication, donation and/or conveyance.
b. Protect lands that contain elements of the natural heritage system by:
i. Identifying development constraints such as floodplains on Schedules A2
and B2 which contribute to the natural heritage system.
ii. Permitting uses that do not adversely affect the natural characteristics of
the area, such as open-air recreation; scientific, educational, or
conservation uses associated with the environmental features.
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c. The development review process, contributions and working with private property
owners and the community will be used to provide Open Space areas along the
Ottawa River. In the interim, existing pathways without proper easements and
proposed pathways identified on Schedules A2 and B2 do not imply public
access or any infringement of private property owner's rights.
3. To improve water quality, and to achieve the naturalization of the Ottawa River corridor
and its tributaries, the Township will work with agencies, and the public to:
a. Support tree planting programs along watercourses, and public spaces.
b. Encourage stewardship programs that:
i. Provide information to residents on how to be sensitive if living close to a
watercourse.
ii. Promote vegetated buffers and stream stabilization on private property
along watercourses through tree planting programs, Shoreline
Naturalization Program and the Rural Clean Water Program.
iii. Promote stormwater management on private property through the use of
rain barrels, disconnection of downspout from the storm sewer, rain
gardens, and tree planting.
iv. Community projects that involve garbage clean up, tree planting, wildlife
habitat and invasive species removal.
3.1
SERVICING
Policies:
1. Municipal sewage services and municipal water services are the preferred form of
servicing for settlement areas. Intensification and redevelopment within settlement
areas on existing municipal sewage and municipal water services should be promoted,
wherever feasible.
2. All new development will generally occur on the basis of full municipal services, with the
exception of certain areas, that may be allowed to be developed on partial municipal
services (water only) or private services.
3. For the purposes of servicing and development, the Village of L'Orignal is divided into
"Full Municipal Serviced Areas", "Partially Serviced Areas", and "Non-Serviced
Development". These areas are identified on Schedule A2.
4. For the purpose of servicing and development, the Village of Vankleek Hill is to be
developed on full municipal services, which may also include partially serviced areas in
accordance with Policy 3.1.11.
5. Development shall generally be directed to areas where water and wastewater services,
if available, can reasonably be extended. Development applications on lands that are
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not serviced or partially serviced may be refused on the basis that full municipal services
will be extended to these lands in the future. Typically, existing lots of record may
proceed on the basis of private services in the "Non-Serviced Development" areas
whereas new lot creations should generally be developed on the basis of full municipal
services.
6. Council shall consider development applications within the "Full Municipal Serviced
Areas", provided there is sufficient reserve capacity in the municipal water and sewer
services in accordance with Ministry of Environment guidelines and regulations.
7. Development will not be promoted where such development would result in, or could
lead to, unplanned expansions to existing water and wastewater infrastructure.
8. Council may consider the need to expand the public piped systems within the Villages,
and may proceed to do so without an amendment to this Official Plan.
9. The developer shall be responsible for all costs related to the introduction or extension of
any service required by virtue of these policies and an agreement to this effect shall be
signed by the developer prior to final approval of the development.
10. Notwithstanding the residential density provisions of this Plan, within the "Non-Serviced
Development" (being those lands not identified for full or partially serviced areas),
Council may consider development of estate lot subdivisions without the need for an
Official Plan Amendment, subject to the other policies of this Plan. In particular, the site
conditions must be suitable for the long-term provision of private individual services.
11. Development on partial services shall only be permitted to allow for infilling and rounding
out of existing development on partial services provided that:
a. the development is within the reserve sewage system capacity and reserve water
system capacity; and
b. site conditions are suitable for the long-term provision of such services.
12. When development of any type will utilize a private water supply and/or a private
wastewater disposal system, compliance with the following policies is required before
such development shall be permitted:
a. The lot area shall comply with the requirements of the Zoning By-law and the
Ministry of Environment regulations for the type of development proposed and
the type of private systems proposed;
b. The water source and supply system shall have the capacity to service the
proposed development without impairing the supply to existing development, and
comply with the water quality objectives set out in the Ontario Drinking Water
Standards; and
c. All private wastewater disposal systems shall be approved by the Township
under the provisions of the Ontario Building Code. Hydrogeological and terrain
analysis studies will be required for all subdivision developments and for any
developments with large sewage systems exceeding 4,500 litres/day.
13. In the limited instances where development on private wastewater services is permitted,
the Township will encourage the use of alternatives to conventional septic beds for each
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dwelling. These may include community disposal fields and artificial ponds, which can
enable more compact, clustered development.
3.2
TRANSPORTATION
The existing transportation network in these urban areas consists mostly of a grid pattern of
two-lane roads. The majority of intersections are unsignalized and generally do not provide
exclusive turning lanes. The road classifications and right-of-way protections are depicted on
the Schedules B1 and B2.
Existing sidewalks have been identified on Schedules A2 and B2. Sidewalks contribute to the
overall transportation linkage system and provide a sense of place for the pedestrian. It is not
the intent of this plan to require sidewalks on all streets, however, where deemed to be
appropriate, Council will seek opportunities to extend or link existing sidewalks.
King Street and Front West Road in L'Orignal is part of the "The Riverflows" recreational
pathway linking to a much larger trails network. From L'Orignal, one can take a connecting trail
to connect with the "The Hillside" trail just out of Vankleek Hill, a recreational trail along the old
railway right-of-way, of the "The Red Brick Path" or "The Panoramic" trail from Vankleek Hill.
Policies:
1. Upon submission of a development proposal, the Township may require a
Transportation Impact Study to evaluate the transportation design and its integration into
the existing road network.
2. While it is not anticipated that additional road capacity is required to serve growth over
the planning period, if required, the Transportation Impact Study submitted as part of a
development application will identify specific road improvement projects and the need for
addition of new collector roads and pathways.
3. Future road and pathway connections, as shown on Schedules A2 and B2, shall be
protected through development and re-development.
4. Roads should be developed based on the guidelines contained in Section 6.2 of this
Plan.
5. Where Council determines that new development may overload the existing
transportation infrastructure, require new infrastructure or does not integrate well with
the existing network, the Township may require that a Transportation Impact Study be
completed.
6. Street patterns in plans of subdivision will be designed with logical connections in the
form of a modified grid pattern connected to the existing road network rather than
looping or dead-end roads.
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7. Portions of the transportation network should be treated as scenic view corridors, where
applicable, such that roadway patterns terminate onto adjacent open space and/or
agricultural land.
8. To promote the re-use of older buildings and a mix of uses in the older parts of the
villages, on-site parking may be reduced or eliminated.
3.3
ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION
The major environmental features in the Village of L'Orignal are:
a)
The Ottawa River;
b)
Fish Habitat and Flood Plain associated with the Ottawa River; and,
c)
Tributary and associated Unstable Slopes along the Ivaco Rolling Mills property toward
the Ottawa River.
The major environmental features in the Village of Vankleek Hill are:
a)
Fish Habitat areas associated with the watercourse along the railway; and,
b)
Organic Soils across the northern portion of the Village.
All of these features provide habitat for birds, fish, shoreline wildlife and other forms of wildlife,
as well as places and pathways for passive recreation.
Federal land use policy provides protection for species at risk and prohibits the destruction,
disruption or alteration of fish habitat. Provincial policy prohibits development and site alteration
in provincially significant wetlands and in the significant habitat of endangered and threatened
species. Development and site alteration is not permitted in other provincially significant
features such as woodlands, areas of natural and scientific interest and on lands adjacent to
provincially significant wetlands, unless it can be demonstrated that no negative impact will
occur to these features and their ecological functions. Municipal policy as contained in the
UCPR Official Plan:
Preserves natural features by designating them for protection
Established a framework for building setbacks
Encourages the preparation of watershed and subwatershed studies and best
environmental management practices
Requires Environmental Impacts Statements and Tree Conservation Reports through
the development review process
Encourages a 'design with nature' approach to promote sustainable development.
Environmental protection areas such as floodplains or other natural or human-made hazards
are depicted on Schedules A2 and B2 as an overlay. The goal of this development constraint is
to protect the public and the natural environment and where appropriate complement the parks,
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open space & recreation network. Environmental protection areas, together with parks, open
space & recreation areas can play a role in providing an open space network that contributes to
the quality of life for residents of the area.
Policies:
1. The boundaries of the floodplains and other natural or human-made hazards (i.e.,
unstable slopes) are based on current mapping information. The precise boundary of
these areas will be defined by the zoning by-law. As a result, when more information is
obtained, minor adjustments may be made to the boundary without requiring a zoning
amendment. Major changes or the removal of environmental protection areas will
require an amendment to the UCPR Official Plan and this Plan.
2. Notwithstanding the underlying land use designation, policies contained in the UCPR
Official Plan apply to these environmental protection areas which are depicted as an
overlay on Schedules A2 and B2 to this Plan.
3. For lands in private ownership that contain environmental protection areas, access to
these lands is not permitted without consent of the property owner.
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4.0
LAND USE
These urban areas will contain a mix of land uses, providing housing and employment
opportunities, as well as retain open space, recreational and community facilities. The Official
Plan establishes a variety of land use designations and related policies that will guide
development within these urban areas.
Policies:
1. The land use designations are shown on Schedules A1 and B1, which form part of the
Plan.
2. Upon submission of a development proposal, the proponent will be required to
demonstrate that:
a. It is in accordance with the Servicing, Transportation, and Environmental
Protection Policies of the Official Plan.
b. Through appropriate design analysis, development addresses the provisions of
the Design Guidelines as contained in this Plan.
3. The Township will evaluate a proposal to change the designation of land from one
category to another against its ability to meet the principles, objectives and policies of
this Plan.
4. Development shall have regard for the Heritage Resources and the Parks, Open Space
and Pathway provisions as contained in this Plan.
5. A more flexible mix of uses suited to the use of older buildings should be permitted on
lands that contain a building of heritage interest.
6. In accordance with the Official Plan, telecommunication facilities, alternative energy
facilities, public utilities and infrastructure are permitted in all designations.
7. In keeping with the area's Village character, the proponent of development shall provide
a minimum of one tree in the road right-of-way for all new development or
redevelopment and on both sides of all collector roads. If it has been determined that
the soils cannot accommodate street trees in the arrangement proposed, then the road
right-of-way or the building setbacks shall be increased so that trees can be provided.
Notwithstanding, the Road Superintendent could waive this requirement, if it is deemed
that the street tree would have negative municipal implications.
8. This Plan recognizes the existing heavy industrial use, the Ivaco Rolling Mills, located
adjacent to L'Orignal's westerly limit. As such, the creation of a lot either by consent,
subdivision or condominium, or a change in land use requiring approval under the
Planning Act, which would permit development of a sensitive use, is not permitted within
300 metres of the limits of the existing industrial facility. Separation distances for Ivaco
Rolling Mills are shown on Schedule A3.
The creation of a new lot either by consent, plan of subdivision or condominium, or
development requiring site plan approval within 600 metres of the limits of this existing
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industrial facility will include the provision of a warning notice of title, noting the site's
proximity to Ivaco's facilities and the potential noise, vibration, emissions, and/or other
adverse effects which may be experienced on their properties from time to time.
4.1
THE VILLAGE CORE
The Village Core is the heart of each urban area. It reflects the Village's history, rural roots,
small-town character and architectural heritage. In earlier times, this area was once the
commercial street. The goal is that these areas become a thriving central place for the Villages.
The Village Core is envisioned to be a vibrant, pedestrian-oriented commercial area, comprised
of smaller-scale buildings, which are readily accessible to residents by a variety of means
besides motor vehicles. The Village Core is the area that needs revitalization to ensure the
mixed-use vision for the area.
Policies
1. Permitted uses on lands designated Village Core include: retail, service commercial,
office use, parks and small institutional uses including schools.
2. Residential uses are also permitted on lands designated Village Core and include:
existing dwellings, apartments (low-rise), residential in combination with a permitted non-
residential use where the dwelling unit is located above or at the rear of the main
building, multiple dwellings (row dwellings and stacked dwellings) and retirement homes.
3. Vehicle-oriented uses such as vehicle sales, rental and service uses that legally existed
on the date of the adoption of the Plan may continue, however, no new uses of this kind
shall be permitted. Stacking lanes associated with drive-through operations should be
located to the side or rear of the building, where possible. If it is located at the side, the
stacking lane should be no closer to the street than the front of the building and
landscaping should be used to help buffer the stacking lane from the sidewalk and
abutting properties.
4. A maximum of four-storey and a minimum two-storey height limit shall be required to
define the edge of the street and to help create a village-style streetscape.
5. The Township will evaluate development proposals in the Village Core against their
ability to meet its Design Guidelines. It is envisioned that the Village Core will evolve
into a mixed-use street with a variety of village-style buildings, storefronts, signage and
pedestrian amenities.
6. Reduced parking requirements shall be established to encourage businesses to locate in
existing buildings and to help revitalize these core areas.
7. On-site parking shall be located to the side of or behind buildings. If it is located at the
side, the parking should be no closer to the street than the front of the building and
landscaping should be used to help buffer parking areas from the sidewalk and abutting
properties.
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8. Special attention should be given to the redevelopment of the Core areas, more
specifically at the intersection of two main streets, which could serve as the primary focal
point of the Villages.
9. Streetscape improvements shall incorporate the following:
a. An interesting and inviting pedestrian environment.
b. Parallel on-street parking to help buffer pedestrians from passing vehicles
resulting in a greater feeling of safety.
c. Intersecting signage.
d. Outdoor spaces for seating.
e. Street trees to separate cars from people.
f.
Bump-outs at strategic intersections.
g. Pedestrian crosswalks.
10. Where possible, existing sidewalks within the road right-of-way, should be widened
either through road reconstruction or redevelopment.
11. The Township may explore the application of programs such as a façade improvement
program through a Community Improvement Plan (CIP), to improve the appearance of
existing building elevations in the Core areas.
12. When streetscape improvements are considered within the Core areas, either as part of
a CIP or development, attractive pedestrian lighting shall be provided to complement the
lighting fixtures already installed or provide new lighting.
13. The Township may initiate local improvement procedures to implement certain
improvements including servicing.
14. Buildings should be close to the street and face the street in order to contribute to a
pleasant pedestrian environment along the sidewalk.
4.2
VILLAGE COMMERCIAL
Lands designated as Village Commercial provides places outside the Village Core areas for
retail and service commercial uses. This designation is limited in area in order to focus
commercial uses in the Village Core areas. The goal is that development in these Village
Commercial areas, balance the needs of pedestrians and cyclists with the needs of automobiles
and other vehicles. Any development in this designation shall have regard to all relevant Design
Guidelines.
Policies:
1. Uses permitted on lands designated Village Commercial include: retail and service
commercial uses, car-oriented uses and facilities that serve residents, visitors and the
surrounding rural community.
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2. The total maximum gross floor area permitted on a site shall not exceed 7,000 m2, and
no single individual occupancy shall exceed 2,790 m2, unless supported by a Market
Impact Study to ensure the viability of the Village Core areas.
3. The Township will evaluate development proposals in the Village Commercial
designation against their ability to meet its Design Guidelines. High quality design is
expected for all properties in this designation, and building and landscape design shall
be reflective of the village-style character.
4. Buildings located near Core areas shall functionally front the street. Building elevations
are to be aesthetically pleasing and contain entrance doors and windows (clear glazing)
with a window target of 50% along the length of the façade.
5. Street-oriented buildings shall be encouraged near the Core areas with a target of 50%
built form along the developable frontage at build-out.
6. Strong pedestrian routes within the site and pedestrian links to existing sidewalks will be
required.
7. In order to reinforce a pedestrian environment, development proposals should not locate
parking directly adjacent to roads. Where it is determined by the Township that parking
is appropriate, it may be permitted and shall be done in the following arrangement (from
the building to the sidewalk): a wide pedestrian space that is frequently connected to the
sidewalk, a vehicular passageway, one-tier of parking and a landscaped space designed
to screen the lower portion of the vehicles from the sidewalk.
8. Large parking areas shall be divided into smaller quadrants by introducing green
landscaped corridors, some of which may incorporate pedestrian walkways.
9. A design feature should be provided as a focal point and may take the form of an urban
plaza, a statue, a clock tower or a similar feature of village significance.
10. Within the Village Commercial designation, the maximum building height limit should be
three-storeys.
11. Shopping Plaza may be reconfigured with commercial development fronting the street
and the remainder of the site for residential purposes, without amending this Plan.
12. Existing residential and institutional uses will be recognized in the Zoning By-law.
4.2.1 SPECIAL EXCEPTIONS
1.
Notwithstanding their Village Commercial designation, lands known as "Le Marche de
l'Ouest", being that part of Reg Plan 15 Pt Farm Lots 3 & 37 RP 46R1342 Pt Pt 1 RP
46R1667 Pt Pt 1 N/S Hwy 17 which front onto County Road 4, may also be used for
enclosed storage in the form of mini-warehouses. However, open storage is not
permitted.
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4.3
RESIDENTIAL
New residential areas should fit well with older parts of the communities. The goal is that these
areas provide a variety of housing styles and densities and a wide range of community services
so that residents can age in place in the same community, if they so choose. Affordable
housing is also needed so that the Villages offer housing options for people of all ages and
incomes.
Policies:
1. Uses permitted on all lands designated Residential Low Density include: detached and
semi-detached dwellings, duplexes, triplexes and ground-oriented (door to street)
attached dwellings containing 6 units or less, secondary dwelling units, group homes,
group homes converted, rooming houses, shelter accommodation, retirement homes,
retirement homes converted, care facilities, bed and breakfast, home-based businesses,
public utilities, open space and parks.
2. Uses permitted on all lands designated Residential Medium Density include: non
ground-oriented residential uses such as stacked townhouses and apartments, group
homes, group homes converted, rooming houses, shelter accommodation, retirement
homes, retirement homes converted, care facilities, home-based businesses, public
utilities, open space and parks. Vacant residential lands currently being used for
agricultural purposes may continue to be used for this purpose; however, Minimum
Distance Separation will not be required and will be zoned accordingly.
3. Vacant residential lands currently being used for agricultural purposes may continue to
be used for this purpose. New livestock facilities are not permitted. Expansion to
existing livestock facilities will be subject to the Minimum Distance Separation (MDSII)
and will be zoned accordingly. Residential development and cemeteries will not be
subject to Minimum Distance Separation (MDSI) to existing livestock facilities, within the
Villages.
4. The following uses may also be permitted on all lands designated Residential subject to
a zoning amendment.
a. Garden suites based on the ability of the site to accommodate the use.
b. Small institutional uses such as a church and daycare located on a collector road
based on a review to confirm there will be no significant surrounding impacts.
c. Primary schools based on the following:
i. The site is a suitable size (2-3 ha) and configuration (generally
rectangular).
ii. It is located on two street frontages (collector/local or collector/collector).
iii. As many children as possible are within walking distance.
iv. Those walking do not have to cross what is perceived to be an unsafe or
hazardous crossing.
d. One or two small convenience commercial uses (e.g. coffee shop, corner store)
that serve the day-to-day needs of the surrounding neighbourhood.
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4.3.1 RESIDENTIAL - ONE AND TWO-UNIT (LOW DENSITY)
The Zoning By-law will identify those lands intended for Residential - One and Two-Unit uses.
The Residential - One and Two-Unit zone category is the predominant residential zone in the
Villages. It will provide for a range of ground-oriented, low-density residential and associated
uses, including detached and semi-detached dwellings.
Policies:
1. Uses permitted on lands zoned as Residential - One and Two-Units include: detached
and semi-detached dwellings, duplexes, bed and breakfast, home-based businesses,
and retirement homes - converted.
2. A limited number of multiple attached dwellings not including apartments or stacked
townhouses may be permitted by zoning amendment at the following locations, as long
as the immediate area is surrounded by a significant band of detached and semi-
detached dwellings.
a. On a collector road
b. Abutting a park or designated open space
c. At the edge of the neighbourhood
3. The maximum building height should be three and a half storeys and be in compliance
with low densities set out in the UCPR Plan.
4. Upon submission of a development application in the Residential - One and Two-Unit
zone, the proponent will demonstrate conformance with the policies and Schedules of
this Plan.
5. The Township will evaluate a development proposal in the Residential - One and Two-
Unit zone against its ability to meet its Design Guidelines.
6. New plans of subdivision will use the historical grid pattern for streets and will ensure
equitable access to parks and other open space in accordance with the parkland
dedication requirements of the Planning Act.
4.3.2 RESIDENTIAL - GROUND-ORIENTED ATTACHED (LOW DENSITY)
The Zoning By-law will identify those lands intended for Residential Ground-Oriented uses. The
Residential Ground-Oriented Attached zone will provide for a range of ground-oriented housing
forms to provide a greater diversity of accommodation that will serve a variety of age groups
and income levels close to uses and services that meet their needs.
Policies:
1. Uses permitted on lands zoned as Residential - Ground Oriented Attached includes:
triplexes and ground-oriented attached dwellings containing 6 units or less. A limited
number of detached, duplex, and semi-detached dwellings may be permitted within a
plan of subdivision or plan of condominium as long as 50% of the parcel remains for
attached dwellings, as defined above.
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2. The maximum building height should be three and a half storeys and be in compliance
with low densities set out in the UCPR Plan.
3. The Township will evaluate a development proposal in the Residential - Ground-
Oriented Attached designation against its ability to meet its Design Guidelines.
4. With the exception of private driveways, on-site parking should be located to the side or
behind a building so that the front elevation can be close to the street. If it is located at
the side, the parking area should be visually screened from the sidewalk and from
abutting neighbours.
4.3.3 RESIDENTIAL - APARTMENTS (MEDIUM DENSITY)
The Zoning By-law will identify those lands intended for Residential - Apartment uses. The
Residential - Apartments zone will provide for higher density, non ground-oriented residential
uses such as stacked townhouses and apartments.
Policies:
1. Uses permitted on lands zoned as Residential - Apartments (Medium Density) include:
stacked townhouses and apartments.
2. The Township will evaluate a development proposal in the Residential Medium Density
designation against its ability to meet its Design Guidelines.
3. The maximum building height should be four storeys.
4. On lands designated Residential Medium Density, a zoning amendment will be required
to create new residential apartment or stacked townhouse sites. An amendment to the
Official Plan is not required unless the height of the proposed building is significantly
greater that the maximum permitted. The following criteria shall be used to assess these
applications:
a. Located on a collector road or
b. Located near a park
c. Compatible with the surrounding community which may be achieved through
building transitions and compliance with maximum densities set out in the UCPR
Plan.
d. Of high-quality design based on approved Design Guidelines.
4.4
INSTITUTIONAL
Institutional land uses include a range of community and emergency uses that serve the needs
of area residents and visitors. The goal is to ensure an appropriate range and scale of
institutional uses to meet the needs of the area. Small scale institutional uses, including a range
of public uses such as a library, education facility, fire station, arena, community facilities used
by the public, cemetery, church, community garden, museum, retirement/residential care facility
and other associated uses may be located within the Village Core or the Residential
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designations. Larger institutional uses such as a hospital or college developed as a campus will
require a site-specific official plan and zoning by-law amendment and shall have regard to the
following policies:
1. The site is a suitable size and configuration.
2. It is located on two street frontages (collector/local or collector/collector).
3. As many residents as possible are within walking distance.
4. Those walking do not have to cross what is perceived to be an unsafe or hazardous
crossing.
4.5
INDUSTRIAL LANDS
The Industrial Lands provide an opportunity for industrial and employment-generating uses that
require large parcels of land and that are not always compatible with residential uses. The goal
is to provide a range and scale of employment opportunities in ways that are compatible with
the character of these areas.
Policies:
1. The industrial designation represents the key employment areas for clusters of business
and economic activities, including, but not limited to, manufacturing, warehousing,
offices, and associated retail and ancillary facilities. Heavy industrial uses (Type 3) are
not permitted.
2. The maximum building height should be equivalent to three to four storeys.
3. The Township will evaluate a development proposal in the Industrial Lands designation
against its ability to meet its Design Guidelines and the Ministry of Environment's Land
Use Compatibility and other "D"-Series Guidelines.
4. The Industrial Lands shall be serviced based on a Site Servicing Study to ensure that
there is a logical coordinated approach to development.
5. For buildings that abut streets, front and side building elevations are to be aesthetically
pleasing and strive in providing primary doors and real windows oriented towards the
street.
6. Adequate buffering including landscaping and screening will be provided between the
uses in the Industrial Area to ensure that storage areas and parking areas are screened
from adjacent properties and streets.
4.6
PARKS, OPEN SPACES & PATHWAYS
There are various parks, open spaces and pathways in these urban areas. The goal is to view
these spaces as more than a collection of individual sites but as a network of green features
that form a broader system used for people's enjoyment and around which the community's can
grow. The parks, open spaces, and pathways consider issues such as land use, programming,
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accessibility, connectivity, and how the existing system meets the recreation and leisure needs
of residents.
It is important to note that the recreation and leisure opportunities in these urban areas extend
beyond their boundaries to connect with other rural villages and urban centres such as the
Town of Hawkesbury, these linkages form part of the UCPR network. This plan considers the
connections to and from the villages as part of the broader network, which includes snowmobile
trails, cross-country ski trails, cycling connections, etc.
The complete park system in these urban areas includes several parks. Ideally, every resident
is within a 5-minute walking distance of a neighbourhood park and a 10-minute walking distance
from a community park.
The Parks, Open Space & Pathways designation has been placed on existing parks, open
space area, recreational areas, recreational uses and recreational facilities. It has also been
placed to schematically represent a linear open space concept to link the municipal park to new
residential neighbourhoods.
Similar to small scale institutional uses, parks, open space & pathways are also permitted within
the Village Core and Residential designations and will be zoned as such.
The goal is to provide a range and scale of parks, open space and recreational opportunities to
meet the needs of the local area. Greater public access, where appropriate, should be provided
to the Ottawa River as per the Plan's Vision statement.
There is a growing need to upgrade the network that links the parks together and to address
lifecycle issues for some parks. The Township may seek funding sources and cash-in-lieu of
parkland dedications as means of maintaining parks and associated infrastructure.
New parks may be required in the Development Lands shown on Schedule A1 and B1. Their
specific locations will be determined through the development review process in accordance
with the Planning Act's parkland dedication.
Part of the vision is to have a multi-purpose pathway system integrated with the UCPR network,
to link the natural areas, open spaces, parks, village cores, schools, churches, and other local
attractions. This system can be used for both recreational and commuting purposes.
The system should accommodate pedestrians, parents with strollers, cross-country skiers and
cyclists. The system includes:
Existing off-road pathways.
Existing sidewalks and some local streets.
Potential future pathways across public lands.
Missing pathway connections where the desired route crosses private lands through
consent.
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Policies:
1. Multi-use pathways, bike lanes, boat launch(es) and sidewalks are shown on Schedules
A2 and B2 to this Plan. An amendment to this Plan is not required to add, modify, or
remove these features.
2. Expansion and enhancement of the pathway system will be achieved through:
a. The subdivision process whereby the Township identified the need for sidewalks
or lands to be dedicated for pathways in the new subdivision.
b. The willingness of property owners to allow public access to their lands through
agreement with the Township.
3. Residents will need to play a lead role in initiating, implementing and maintaining the
pathway system.
4. The following criteria should be considered when deciding which pathways are to be
built/upgraded:
a. Landowner access agreements across a defined portion of their lands.
b. Prioritizing pathways in the Village Core areas.
c. Creating or completing self-contained pathway circuits.
d. Pathways not requiring large capital costs at public expense should have priority.
5. Pathways will be strategically marked to ensure users are aware when the system
crosses land that is privately owned.
6. L'Orignal and Vankleek Hill's Village character should be reflected in the detailed design
of the pathway system. This includes entry points to the pathway system, markers,
directional signage and possible amenities such as benches and litter containers.
7. The Parks, Open Space, and Pathways will be consulted during development review so
that proposed parks and pathways are incorporated into the application. The Township
will seek opportunities to complete the pathway system in consultation with the
landowner. In certain situation, sidewalks or quiet local streets may be required to
complete the pathway links.
8. Parks, Open Space & Pathway areas shall be used for both active and passive
recreation purposes. These shall include such uses as children's playgrounds, games,
sports fields, golf course, driving range, bathing beaches, picnic areas, fairgrounds,
natural parks, a park, recreational and athletic facility, environmental preserve and an
education area.
9. Parks will be developed in consultation with local residents and Township Council and
should be based on the following:
a. Pedestrian connections should be provided to sidewalks and pathways.
b. The park should be exposed to local streets with a street frontage, where
possible.
c. Crime Prevention through Environmental Design (CPTED) should be considered
in the design of the park.
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d. The park should not be located immediately adjacent to school properties but
may be associated with other community facilities or infrastructure.
e. The park will not be used as part of, or associated with, the function of the
stormwater management system.
10. An evaluation of existing and/or proposed parks, open spaces and recreational areas, as
shown on the Schedules of the Plan, should be consulted to ensure a high degree of
connectivity between parks, open space & recreation areas and the rest of the village.
11. New parks will be required in the Development Lands in accordance with the Planning
Act requirements. Their specific locations will be determined through the development
review process.
12. The Township is entitled to a dedication of land for park purposes as a condition on any
division of land in accordance with the Planning Act (5% for residential development and
2% for commercial/industrial development). Cash-in-lieu of land may be requested by
the Township in situations where there is a public park in the area which is adequate for
existing and future population. Cash-in-lieu may also be requested where the amount of
land involved is small and, therefore, unsuitable for park development. Where lands are
dedicated for park purposes, the Township will accept only those lands suitable for park
use. It is the intention of the Township to obtain, wherever possible and practical,
waterfront lands along the Ottawa River and in areas that would assist in integrating the
parks, open space and pathway areas.
13. Where land designated Parks, Open Space, and Pathway is under private ownership, it
is not to be construed as implying that these areas are free and open to the general
public or will be purchased by the Township.
Neighbourhood Parks:
14. As a focal point, neighbourhood parks will provide a local gathering and recreational
space for nearby residents. They are generally located in the centre of each
neighbourhood within approximately a 5-minute walking distance for most residents
(400-500 m). Each neighbourhood park will incorporate a variety of active recreational
opportunities such as children's play areas, outdoor rinks, splash pads, pedestrian
walkways, and seating areas or other facilities determined by the Township.
a. The size of a neighbourhood park is to be no less than 0.8 ha (2.0 acres).
b. Parking areas are not required within a neighbourhood park.
Community Parks:
15. The community park is geographically located at the centre of the precinct and within
approximately a 10-minute walking distance (800 m to 1 km) from the surrounding
neighbourhoods. The park will incorporate a variety of active recreational opportunities
such as sports fields, tennis courts, splash pads, children's play areas, pedestrian
walkways, and seating areas or other facilities determined by the Township. Visual
amenities such as shrub beds and arbors should also be provided at pedestrian nodes
or gathering areas.
a. The size of a community park is to be no less than 3.5 ha (8.0 acres).
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b. Medium density residential uses should be located near the community park.
c. Surface parking should be located near the community park.
d. Lighting should be directed away from residential areas.
Parkette:
16. Parkettes have a role in the hierarchy of the parks network and play an important
function in community building and creating pleasant, human-scaled places within
neighbourhoods. The developer is welcomed to provide parkettes at their cost;
however, the Township may choose to accept them in the total dedicated parkland
calculations.
a. Parkettes will be approximately 0.2 to 0.4 hectares in size and will be configured
to allow for the functional design and placement of neighbourhood-type facilities.
The actual size and shape of each parkette will be confirmed at the time of plan
of subdivision.
b. Parkettes should terminate view corridors and pedestrian sight lines by such
means as having full street frontage on at least two streets.
c. The adjacent street and lotting pattern will provide built form which fronts onto the
parkettes. Rear lot locations will be discouraged.
d. Entry/access points should be conveniently located leading directly off the public
sidewalk or walkway and should incorporate community and/or civic design
elements.
e. Parkettes could include such features as a community garden, a lookout point to
a stormwater management pond, a respite area, as well as an active play feature
such as a small waterplay area, half court basketball, or small skateboard facility.
The Township will determine the facilities in the parkettes if they are to assume
ownership and maintenance of these facilities.
f.
Landscaping should reinforce the urban street edge by such means as
coordinating with, or enhancing already approved, street tree planting and should
incorporate indigenous species for trees, shrubs, and ground cover planting.
17. Existing parks should be upgraded from time to time in consultation with the local
community, as funding becomes available or through cash-in-lieu of parkland
dedications.
18. Development amenities on municipal lands should be provided along the river such as
signage, benches, access and fishing points, canoe launches.
4.7
DEVELOPMENT LANDS
The designation of Development Lands (Expansion Area) on Schedules A1 and B1 contributes
to the provision of sufficient settlement area land to support the residential demands of the
projected population, as per the UCPR Plan. The goal is that these lands be developed
primarily for residential purposes, although minor, non-residential uses to meet the needs of a
neighbourhood may also be located here.
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Policies:
1. Lands designated as 'Development Lands (Expansion Area)' on Schedules A1 and B1
contribute to the provision of sufficient settlement area land to support the residential
demands of the projected population to 2031. The intent is that these lands will be
developed primarily for urban residential uses, once the policies of this section have
been satisfied.
2. Prior to an Official Plan Amendment to designate lands for residential land uses, the
Township shall consider:
a. whether the lands to be designated are required in order to maintain a 10-year
supply of lands designated and available, for a full range of housing types
through residential development and residential intensification;
b. the achievement of intensification targets as set out in the UCPR Plan.
3. If the assessment in Policy 2 indicates the need for additional residential lands, the
Official Plan Amendment will need to be in accordance with the policies of this Plan and
UCPR Plan.
4. The policies of this section will be achieved principally through the preparation of a plan
of subdivision. However, uses will be permitted on an existing lot or by consent.
5. Proponents of development will complete, to the satisfaction of the County, studies and
plan(s) of sufficient detail to:
a. Identify the location, timing and cost of water and wastewater services, public
utilities, stormwater management facilities, etc. required on-site and off-site to
service the area;
b. Complete an EIS in accordance with Section 5 of the UCPR Official Plan;
c. Identify Parkland and Recreational Pathways on the site;
d. Establish the mix and location of residential dwellings which, as a minimum, will
constitute the following:
i. Up to 85% Low-Density Residential, 15% Medium-Density Residential.
ii. In Development Lands (Expansion Area) designations, overall residential
development will meet a minimum average density target of 16 units per
net hectare for the Low-Density Residential areas and up to 30 units per
net hectare for the Medium-Density Residential areas. Net residential
density is based on the area of land in exclusively residential use,
including lanes and parking areas internal to developments but excluding
public streets, rights-of-way and all non-residential uses.
e. Show how the plan will achieve other policies of the UCPR Official Plan
including, but not limited to, affordable housing and design; and
f.
Meet the requirements of Phase 1 and 2 of the Environmental Assessment Act
where required.
6. Proponents of development will prepare a Financial Implementation Plan and commit to
providing:
a. The on-site and off-site servicing systems described above through development
charges or at the expense of the developer;
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b. The natural heritage areas as non-developable lands to be transferred to the
Township for $1; and
c. The Recreational Pathways as identified in this Plan through development
charges or at the expense of the developer.
7. Development may proceed once the Township is satisfied that the requirements of this
section have been met and the UCPR has approved the plan of subdivision.
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5.0
HERITAGE RESOURCES
The Township recognizes the importance of cultural heritage resources within these villages.
Therefore, the goal of the Township is to encourage the identification, conservation, protection,
restoration, maintenance, and enhancement of cultural heritage resources. All new
development permitted by the policies of this Plan shall have regard for cultural heritage
resources and will make every attempt to incorporate these resources into any new
development plans. In addition, all new development will be planned in a manner that
preserves and enhances the context in which cultural heritage resources are situated.
Cultural heritage resources include, but are not restricted to, built heritage, cultural heritage
landscapes, archaeological sites, cemeteries and burials, buildings and structural remains of
historical and architectural value, and human-made rural and urban areas or landscapes of
historic and scenic interest.
Policies:
1. Council may protect and enhance distinguishing qualities and character of cultural
heritage landscapes.
2. In accordance with Section 27 of the Ontario Heritage Act, the municipal clerk shall
maintain a register of all property designated under Part IV and Part V of the Ontario
Heritage Act. This register may also contain properties that have heritage conservation
easements placed upon them and properties that are not designated, but which are
considered by Council to be of cultural heritage value or interest.
3. Council may explore the creation of a Municipal Heritage Committee (MHC) pursuant to
Section 28 of the Ontario Heritage Act to advise and assist the Township on matters
related to Parts IV, V, and VI of the Act. In addition, the Township may wish to expand
the role of the heritage advisory committee to advise and assist the Township on other
matters of cultural heritage conservation.
4. Pursuant to the Ontario Heritage Act, and in consultation with the MHC, the Township
may, by by-law:
a. designate properties to be of cultural heritage value or interest;
b. define the villages, or any area or areas within the villages as an area to be
examined for designation as a heritage conservation district; and
c. designate the villages, or any area or areas within the villages, as a heritage
conservation district.
5. The Township will lead the community in restoring, rehabilitating, enhancing, and
maintaining cultural heritage resources owned by the Township as examples of the
proper stewardship of such resources, as funding becomes available.
6. In all designations, the Township will ensure that appropriate care is taken to preserve
mature trees and other vegetation of heritage significance and/or scenic value. Existing
landmark trees and tree and hedge lines should be an essential consideration in the
design of any development. The preservation of trees along streets and roads will be
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encouraged by the Township, except where removal is necessary because of disease
damage, or to ensure public health and safety.
7. The Township recognizes that there may be archaeological remains of prehistoric and
historic habitation, or areas containing archaeological potential within the boundaries of
the Villages. The Township may require archaeological assessments conducted by
archaeologists licensed under the Ontario Heritage Act, as a condition of any
development proposal affecting areas containing a known archaeological site or
considered to have archaeological potential. Archaeological assessment reports
conducted by licensed archaeologists are to be in compliance with guidelines set out by
the Ministry of Culture (MCL), as well as licensing requirements developed under the
Ontario Heritage Act.
8. Areas of archaeological potential include when the lands in question contain or are
located within at least one of the following:
a. 250 metres of a known archaeological site;
b. 300 metres of a primary water source, such as a lakeshore, river or large creek;
c. 300 metres of an ancient water source identified by a beach ridge, riverbed;
d. 200 metres of a secondary water source, such as a wetland, marsh, small creek,
spring;
e. 10 metres of a cemetery dating prior to 1945 (WWII);
f.
elevated topography (knolls, drumlins, eskers, plateaus, etc.);
g. pockets of sandy soil in a clay or rocky area;
h. unusual land formations (mounds, caverns, waterfalls, etc.);
i.
an extractive area (for food or scarce resources);
j.
non-aboriginal settlement features (monuments, cemeteries);
k. historic transportation features (road, rail, portage);
l.
designated property (refer to Municipal Heritage Committee);
m. local knowledge associated to property with historic events, activities or
occupations.
9. Aboriginal consultation will be undertaken for all development proposals where a
Stage 2 Archaeological Assessment has shown the potential for aboriginal artefacts to
be encountered.
10. The retention, renewal, and conservation of commercial built resources of historic and
cultural heritage value or interest will be encouraged if they are affected by an
application for development or redevelopment. The effects of such development plans
on the character of the surrounding area will also be considered and a heritage impact
statement to significant built and cultural heritage landscapes may be required. The
impact of such development plans on the character of the surrounding area will also be
considered.
11. Council shall ensure adequate archaeological assessment and consult with appropriate
government agencies, including the Ministry of Tourism and Culture and the Cemeteries
Regulation Unit of the Ministry of Small Business and Consumer Services, when an
identified and marked or unmarked cemetery is affected by land use development. The
provisions under the Ontario Heritage Act and the Cemeteries Act shall apply.
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12. The Township may utilize available government or non-government funding assistance
programs to assist in the implementation of cultural heritage conservation policies. The
Township, where appropriate, will co-operate with other levels of government, as well as
private agencies and individuals, in the conservation of cultural heritage resources in the
Township.
13. Council views archaeological preservation in situ as the preferred method of ensuring
that the integrity of the resource is maintained. However, Council also recognizes there
may be a need for rescue excavation of significant archaeological resources as a result
of development proposals and will consider this only when it is demonstrated that in situ
preservation is not possible.
Alteration, Removal or Demolition
Where heritage resource buildings are designated under the Ontario Heritage Act, no alteration,
removal or demolition shall be undertaken that would adversely affect the reason(s) for
designation except in accordance with the Ontario Heritage Act.
Policies:
1. To ensure a greater degree of protection to designated heritage resources properties,
Council may enter into agreements with property owners, or may attempt to secure
conservation easements, in order to protect those features of a building or structure
deemed to have particular heritage value.
2. The architectural, and/or historical, and/or contextual significance of a building will be
considered at the time of application for demolition.
3. Council will participate, wherever feasible, in the conservation of cultural heritage
resources by conserving and mitigating impacts to all significant cultural heritage
resources, when undertaking public works.
4. Council will require a heritage impact assessment conducted by a qualified professional
whenever a development has the potential to affect a protected heritage property or
cultural heritage resource.
Alteration or Demolition on Adjacent Lands
Where a real property is protected under Parts IV, V, or VI of the Ontario Heritage Act,
development, site alteration, or demolition of structures may be permitted on adjacent lands
where it has been evaluated through a Heritage Impact Statement, and demonstrated to the
satisfaction of Council that the heritage values, attributes, and integrity of the protected heritage
property are retained. For the purposes of this Section, adjacent lands shall include lands that
are contiguous, and lands that are directly opposite a protected heritage property, separated
only by a laneway, municipal road or County road. A holding provision may be applied on the
zoning of lands adjacent to protected heritage properties to ensure that, prior to development or
site alteration, a Heritage Impact Statement is required to demonstrate how the heritage values,
attributes, and integrity of the protected heritage property are to be conserved and how any
impacts may be mitigated.
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6.0
VILLAGE DESIGN GUIDELINES
Village Design Guidelines included in Appendix 1, are ideas on how the Township of Champlain
would like to influence the built environment as these urban areas mature and evolve. The
guidelines may be applied in all or in specified designations in the Plan.
As part of a development application (i.e., Site Plan, Plan of Subdivision), the proponents of
development (landowners, architects, planners) must demonstrate, how individual proposals
reflect the following considerations and further the design objectives of the Township. The
Township may amend the Village Design Guidelines without the need to amend this Official
Plan.
6.1
SUBDIVISION DESIGN FOR RESIDENTIAL DEVELOPMENT
The following guidelines apply to residential development throughout the villages. The
Township may develop more detailed Design Guidelines based on the intent of the following
section. The purpose of these guidelines is to create a healthy and sustainable community by
ensuring that districts, neighbourhoods and streets are well designed and fit with their
surroundings. The overall character of the street is most important and should reflect the
following components:
Interesting architecture and a variety of materials and colours
Streetscape details including sidewalks, street trees and quality streetlights
Door and windows that face the street
Garages that are no closer to the street than the front door
Buildings that are close to the street (but not so close that a vehicle cannot be parked in
the driveway without overhanging onto the sidewalk or the street)
Short blocks and wide rather than narrow lots
A mix of housing types within each block or among blocks
Porches should be integrated with the overall building design and not appear as add-ons
Sometimes have a consistent front yard setback and sometimes have a varied setback,
particularly for townhouses
Buildings that overlook parks and creeks
Guidelines:
1. A modified grid pattern should be used and modified to today's operating requirements.
Suburban-style road patterns, such as curvilinear streets, P-loops, and dead ends
should be avoided.
2. Existing constraint lands and natural and built features that provide a sense of place and
link to the area's past should be retained. Hedgerows, rock cuts, flood-prone areas, old
fences and mature stands of trees are examples.
3. Where development abuts waterways, parks, forests or farmland, the pattern of roads
and lots should be configured so that the public can see and access these features. To
this end, road patterns should be configured to take advantage of these features by
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using single-load roads with buildings that overlook the feature. Roads should also be
configured to terminate onto the feature, thus creating a vista down the street.
4. Development should provide pathway connections and, where possible, these pathways
should link with the village's pathway network.
5. Sustainability measures, such as solar orientation, energy conservation and the
greening of the village, should be encouraged and supported in the design of
subdivisions.
6. There should be an appropriate transition in built form between areas where heights
and/or use are different.
7. Large-lot, village style detached dwellings should be mixed with other types of dwellings
along targeted and highly visible streets. These village-style streetscapes contain some
or all of the following features:
a. Larger lots;
b. Wooden of rock fences and hedgerows;
c. Garages as separate buildings either beside or behind the principal building;
d. Natural driveways where only the tire treads are hard-surfaced, or where the
driveway is made of permeable material; and
e. Small ornamental flower gardens.
8. Setbacks from the curb or sidewalk to the abutting building elevation should:
a. Be close enough to create a sense of intimacy along the streetscape;
b. Be setback further than suburban buildings;
c. Provide enough space to park a vehicle; and
d. Provide enough space to plant a tree in the front yard.
Variation in Design:
9. To avoid repetition, a variety of attached and detached building types that include a
range of design features should be provided along each street or block.
10. For attached dwellings, block lengths should be 5 units or less, with the maximum block
length of 6 units used sparingly.
11. For detached dwellings:
a. Use wide, short lots rather than narrow, deep lots because they feel more
spacious and less dense.
b. Do not replicate the same design next door, across the street or on either side
across the street.
c. Use wrap-around porches on corner lots.
Garages and Other Accessory Buildings:
12. A mix of non-attached and attached garages is encouraged, with the non-attached
buildings being located in the rear yard.
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13. Attached garages should be predominantly in-line or recessed from the main front or
exterior side elevation of the house.
Landscaping, Fencing and Parking:
14. Street trees, landscaping and pedestrian lights should be incorporated into development.
15. Sufficient screening, landscaping and wide side yards should be provided to minimize
the impact of abutting non-residential uses.
16. Signage and street names should reflect the area's village character.
6.2
STREETSCAPE DESIGN ALONG ROADS
The Road Corridor Planning and Design Guidelines for roads will be used to guide future
roadway development. The table below outlines the appropriate village-style rights-of-way and
streetscapes for the community. To that end, collector roads and right-of-way protections have
been depicted on Schedules A2 and B2 in accordance with the UCPR OP. It is understood that
specific right-of-way requirements will be determined through detailed engineering processes.
VILLAGE-STYLE STREETSCAPES
TRADITIONAL
VILLAGE
MAINSTREET
(Within Village
Core designation)
Street trees, pedestrian
lighting and unit pavers in
the outer boulevard
Sidewalks on both sides of
the street
Buildings to face street and
built close to street with no
parking allowed in the front
yard
Curbs and catch basins
On-street parking on both
sides of street
Improvements should be
undertaken simultaneously
with other Public Works
Projects
VILLAGE
COLLECTOR
(Minor collector
outside Village Core)
Sidewalks on one side
of the street
Curbs and catch basins
Grass and trees to be in
the outer boulevard
On-street parking on
one side of the street
UCPR OP ROW
requirement is 26 m
Improvements will need
to be undertaken in
collaboration with the
UCPR Public Works
Department
VILLAGE LOCAL
Street trees, pedestrian
lighting
Curbs and catch basins
On-street parking on both
sides of street
20 m ROW to be
protected
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7.0
IMPLEMENTATION
1. The Official Plan shall be adopted by Township Council and approved by the UCPR as
the policy direction for the Urban Areas of the Township of Champlain.
2. This Official Plan must be read in conjunction with provincial policies and the UCPR
Official Plan. Other implementation tools under the Planning Act, such as Plan of
Subdivision, Community Improvement Policies, etc. are described in the UCPR Official
Plan and may be used by the Township in accordance with the Planning Act.
3. Unless otherwise specified, an amendment to this Official Plan (OPA) shall be required
for any substantive change including, for example a change from industrial to residential.
In these instances the provisions in the Plan will automatically be changed with the OPA.
4. An amendment to the Plan (as a concurrent process to a zoning or subdivision
application) shall be required for any substantive change to a policy or Schedule
contained in the Plan.
5. Minor, non-substantive changes to the Plan or interpretations to the Village Design
Guidelines shall be made at the discretion of Township Council. In these cases,
subdivision, site plan and zoning approval by the Township or UCPR constitute approval
of the change or interpretation of the provisions of the Plan.
Achieving Affordable Housing Targets:
6. Affordable housing will be required in accordance with policies contained in the UCPR
OP which defines affordable housing as rental or ownership housing, for which a low or
moderate-income household pays no more than 30% of its gross annual income. The
Official Plan directs that 25% of all new housing development and redevelopment is to
be affordable to households at or below the 30th income percentile for rental and at or
below the 30th income percentile for ownership. For the current year, the rent at the 30th
income percentile is $420 and the price of a home at the 30th income percentile is
$124,000 (Source: MMAH, October 2006 for the UCPR). These numbers will be
adjusted over time in accordance with inflation and the consumer price index.
Therefore, within these urban areas a minimum of approximately 25% of all housing
should be within the above-noted affordability range, assessed at the time of subdivision
approval.
Parks:
7. With regards to parks, the following shall apply:
a. As development proceeds, innovative implementation strategies may be explored
in order to ensure the timely advancement of municipal infrastructure and
community facilities.
b. The specific locations of parks in the Development Lands will be determined
through the development review process.
c. The Township may use the mechanisms under the Planning Act for parkland
dedications.
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d. The Township may explore a development charges By-law to cover certain
projects and improvements such as parks, open space, and pathways.
Level of Service:
8. The Township will maintain an adequate level of service of its infrastructure to support a
sustainable and livable community. Development applications will need to demonstrate
adequacy of municipal services and servicing options. The timing and pace of
development will be influenced by the availability of required infrastructure - roads and
services - to support growth. Development timing is difficult to predict, however, there
are sufficient residential and employment lands to accommodate growth over the next 20
years. It should be noted that the timing of improvements will be influenced by
development timing and funding arrangements that need to examine municipal budget
priorities, development charge requirements, and viable front-ending agreements.
Water, Storm, and Sanitary Sewers:
9. The urban areas are serviced by a municipal wastewater collection system, municipal
water system and stormwater collection system. There are sufficient designated and
available lands, and sufficient servicing capacity to provide at least a 3 year supply of
residential units.
Transportation:
10. The timing for transportation projects will be in large part tied to municipal budget
priorities and Transportation Impact Studies (TIS) that accompany development
applications. The TIS will assess current and future traffic and pedestrian movement
conditions to determine the timing of the required roadway and pedestrian
improvements.
Subdivisions and Site Plans:
11. The Township will seek to develop development and technical guidelines in regards to
Subdivision and Site Plan Developments. As part of development, the Township will
impose closed ditches.
7.1
SITE PLAN CONTROL BY-LAW
Site plans are detailed plans of a site indicating the location of buildings and structures,
access, parking, landscaping, and so on. This is a control on the form and quality of the
development, which does not abrogate the development rights of the owner according to
the Zoning By-law. The general objective of the Township in proposing Site Plan Control
is to assure that the impact of major developments is positive rather than negative,
through a flexible control over the location and nature of things that are difficult to define
in a Zoning By-law, such as: landscaping and buffering, grading, drainage, lighting and
vehicular and pedestrian access. Minor developments, such as single family dwellings,
generally do not require this type of control. This control is most suitable for industrial,
commercial and medium density residential developments or for development where
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special site conditions exist. In addition, the Site Plan Control mechanism provides for
development agreements dealing with the Site Plan, maintenance of facilities and other
related matters.
The whole of these urban areas are designated as a Site Plan Control Area.
As a condition of a Site Plan Control By-law, the Township may require road widening
for those roads outlined in Section 6.2 to a maximum width as proposed in those
policies.
Prior to the submission of an application for Site Plan Control, the applicant shall arrange
a pre-consultation meeting. For the purposes of the Site Plan Control By-law, the
Township proposes to require drawings showing plan, elevation and cross-section views
for all commercial, industrial, institutional, multiple residential dwellings, including mixed-
use buildings. Further, the Township may require applicants to provide details
regarding: matters relating to exterior design, including without limitation the character,
scale, appearance and design features of buildings and their sustainable design; the
sustainable design elements on any adjoining highway under the Township's jurisdiction,
including, without limitation, trees, shrubs, hedges, plantings or other ground cover,
permeable paving materials, street furniture, curb ramps, waste and recycling containers
and bicycle parking facilities; and facilities designed to have regard for accessibility for
persons with disabilities.
Official Plan for the Urban Areas
of the Township of Champlain
JLR 16690-291
J.L. Richards & Associates Limited
February 2013
- 39 -
8.0
CONSULTATION AND APPLICATION REQUIREMENTS
8.1
PRE-CONSULTATION
1. The Township shall make staff (or consultant) available for pre-consultation for all
development applications for which it is the approval authority, and will also be available
for pre-consultation for Official Plan Amendments and Plans of Subdivisions.
2. Township Council shall require that all applications under the Planning Act pre-consult
with the Township or its representative.
3. Township Council shall require that all applications for Official Plan Amendment, Plan of
Subdivision and Consents be presented to staff prior to submission to the County. Staff
could elect to bring these matters forward to Planning Committee, and/or Council for
recommendation(s).
8.2
DEVELOPMENT APPLICATIONS: REQUIRED INFORMATION AND MATERIAL
1. As per the Planning Act, Council or its designated approval authorities may require
applicants to provide additional information or material to accompany the following
development applications:
a. Official Plan Amendments;
b. Zoning By-law Amendments;
c. Applications for Plan of Subdivision or Condominium
d. Applications for Site Plan Control;
e. Consent Applications (Lot Creation, Lot Line Adjustment, Permissions, etc.); and
f.
Applications for Minor Variance.
2. In addition to the information and materials required under the Planning Act and any
other legislation or regulation, as amended, the Township, or its representative, shall
confirm which of the following must be provided by the applicant at the time of the pre-
consultation regarding a development proposal for a planning approval listed in
Section 8.3.4 of this Plan and any studies identified by the Township or UCPR OP.
8.3
DEVELOPMENT APPLICATIONS: ADDITIONAL STUDIES AND ASSESSMENTS
1. In addition to the requirements of Section 8.3.4 of this Plan, additional information in the
form of the studies or assessments listed in this Section may be required in order to
consider a planning application complete.
2. The additional information will be required as part of a complete application in order to
ensure that all relevant and required information and material pertaining to a planning
application is available at the time of submission to enable Council and/or its designated
approval authorities to make informed decisions within the prescribed time periods, and
also ensure that the public and other stakeholders have access to all relevant
information early in the planning process.
Official Plan for the Urban Areas
of the Township of Champlain
JLR 16690-291
J.L. Richards & Associates Limited
February 2013
- 40 -
3. The number and scope of studies and assessments to be required for the submission of
a complete application shall be in keeping with the scope ad complexity of the
application.
4. The additional information or material that may be required includes, but is not limited to,
the studies and assessments listed below and by the UCPR Official Plan:
a.
Air Quality / Dust / Odour / Noise Study;
b.
Archaeological Assessments;
c.
Compatibility Assessments;
d.
Concept Plans;
e.
Environmental Impact Assessments / Audits / Previous Land Use Inventories;
f.
Site-Specific Risk Assessments;
g.
Financial Impact Assessments / Analyses;
h.
First Nations Consultations;
i.
Flood Plain Management / Slope Stability Reports;
j.
Geotechnical Studies;
k.
Groundwater Nitrate Impact Assessment;
l.
Heritage Impact Statements;
m. Hydrogeological Reports;
n.
Hydraulic Analysis;
o.
Ice Throw Reports;
p.
Influence Area Studies;
q.
Landscaping Plans;
r.
Market Justification / Impact Assessments;
s.
Micro-Climatic Impact Assessments;
t.
Natural Heritage Evaluation / Impact Studies;
u.
Parking and/or Loading Studies;
v.
Planning Justification / Rationale;
w.
Servicing Reports;
x.
Shadow Impact / Flicker Studies;
y.
Site Rehabilitation Plans;
z.
Stormwater Management / Master Drainage Plans;
aa. Structural Engineering Analyses;
bb. Transportation / Traffic Impact / Access Analyses;
cc. Tree Inventory / Tree Preservation / Tree Protection Plans;
dd. Village Design Brief or Study / Guidelines;
ee. Visual Impact Studies.
Notwithstanding the required studies and assessments listed above, Council may ask for any
additional information that is considered reasonable and necessary in order to make a decision
on a development application.
The Township or approval authorities may require any of the studies or assessments noted
above to be peer reviewed on behalf of the Township at the proponent's expense.
APPENDIX 1
VILLAGE DESIGN GUIDELINES
1
THE VILLAGE CORE
Enhancing the Village core areas is reflected in several of the visionary principles -
protect and enhance the area's historic village character. The Village Core areas are
identified on Schedules A1 and B1 to this Plan. This is the place that best reflects the
history, rural roots, small-town character and heritage architecture of these areas. It is
also a place that is an important transportation corridor. Renewal and on-going
redevelopment in the Village Core is dependent on the land use policies, the
employment strategy and the design guidelines contained in this Plan.
Guideline:
1. The guidelines and illustrations contained in this Appendix serve as a guide for
future development in the Village Core. Council may wish to develop a more
detailed set of Design Guidelines for specific land use designations.
L'ORIGNAL VILLAGE CORE
The vision for the Core area is based on providing some degree of compatible
'mainstreet' evolution. This vision would see this area evolve into a revitalized and
reinvested mainstreet recapturing the once prominent commercial, civic and cultural
activities. Suggested improvements include: i) pedestrian crosswalks, ii) pedestrian
bump-outs at intersections, iii) wide sidewalks, iv) unit pavers and street trees in the
boulevard, v) outdoor sitting areas, vi) buildings close to the street, vii) tasteful
pedestrian-scale signage and viii) lots of windows and doors facing the street.
Source: Township of Champlain
VANKLEEK HILL VILLAGE CORE
The vision is to have the Core area transform into a place that is the identifiable centre of
Vankleek Hill, as a destination. Suggested improvements include: i) elevation
improvements to key public and commercial buildings, ii) landscape improvements, iii)
2
redevelopment of various properties, iv) outdoor plaza's for public use at various
corners, v) bump-outs and pedestrian crosswalks at key intersections.
Source: Township of Champlain
VILLAGE-WIDE BUILDING DESIGN
The following guidelines generally apply to all buildings throughout the Village of
L'Orignal and Vankleek Hill.
Guidelines:
1. New buildings and additions should be of their own time and should harmonize
with the existing heritage and rural character in the Villages. They should:
a. Use design elements inspired by buildings of heritage interest in the
villages or by buildings and landscape features in other villages and
towns in Eastern Ontario.
b. Reflect the existing colours and materials in the villages such as clay
brick, grey stone/blocks or wood siding or use high-quality, modern and
colourful materials that complement the village character.
Source: Township of Champlain
3
Buildings of Heritage Interest:
2. Any application to alter an existing building, which is listed on the Heritage
Reference List or Registry, should be reviewed with consideration given to the
impact of the proposed alteration on the heritage character and setting of the
building. Alterations should retain and enhance the existing historical and
architectural quality of the building and the site.
3. Any application to construct a new building or addition adjacent to a property that
contains a building on the Heritage Reference List or Registry should be
reviewed with consideration given to its potential to enhance the heritage
character of the building and the street along which it is located.
Source: Township of Champlain
4
THE EASTERN ONTARIO WAY
The following sections are extracted from the Eastern Ontario Visual Character website
(www.eovc.ca) and serves to provide a larger picture of design considerations and
character across Eastern Ontario. Development should reflect or complement the
building shapes, colours, materials, building details and landscape features highlighted
in the following set of illustrations.
RESIDENTIAL
Houses in Eastern Ontario are generally one or two-storey detached dwellings, most
ranging from 70 m2 (750 ft2) to 232 m2 (2,500 ft2), with some larger historic and
contemporary mansions. There are also duplexes, triplexes, semi-detached dwellings,
townhouses, and small apartments spread throughout most communities.
The following images, from the Eastern Ontario Visual Character website, depict some
of the distinctive features that add to the visual character of houses in Eastern Ontario.
These include door and window shapes and details, facia edging, porch details, building
materials and colours.
Source: www.eovc.ca
VILLAGE CORE (MAINSTREETS)
Village Cores or Mainstreets are the historic spines of towns and villages and one of the
most outstanding features of Eastern Ontario. In most cases, they are single, linear
streets along which the community's social and economic activities are centred. This is
5
where most of the town halls, churches, retail stores and personal service businesses
are or were located. The continuous and compact buildings and the architectural styles
that characterize these Core areas and mainstreets distinguish them from their
surroundings. Recent development in towns and villages has attempted to emulate
mainstreets in an effort to avoid the generic patterns of post-war suburbs.
Mainstreets, located in English villages, are characterized by purpose-built, two to three
storey, red brick or stone commercial buildings. In the French villages, they are
characterized by wood frame commercial buildings and converted residential buildings
with multiple additions.
Source: www.eovc.ca
Commercial and mixed use buildings within the Core areas (mainstreet) are usually one
to four storeys with narrow or no space between them, forming streetwalls that define
the edge of roads and sidewalks. These areas have become the central shopping and
cultural gathering places within each community. Most communities are exploring ways
to re-use the upper floors of these buildings as work and living spaces and to increase
the number of residential units around them. The following are elements of commercial
and mixed use buildings with Core areas:
Older mainstreet buildings commonly have flat roofs with lots of decorative
detailing and impressive windows, doorways and cornice lines, typically derived
from classical architecture.
French-Canadian buildings are normally modest wooden or stone structures with
distinctive rooflines and fewer decorative details. They were built close to the
street, originally as homes, but have since been added on to and converted to
commercial.
The store fronts are finely designed and constructed with display windows and
elegant signs.
In smaller towns and villages, many commercial buildings are converted houses
(usually with porches).
Typical building materials include: white/grey limestone, yellow/brown granite
stone and red or natural, earth-tone brick.
6
Source: www.eovc.ca
CIVIC
There are numerous examples of older high quality institutional buildings, such as town
halls, post offices and schools that are found in almost all communities. Features
include elements such as:
Soaring towers some with clocks and/or steep roofs forming dramatic skylines;
Symmetrical design and extensive use of local stone work to reflect the
historically proper sense of authority/permanency for large institutional buildings,
and;
Lots of decorative details around doors, windows and cornice lines.
Source: www.eovc.ca
Ottawa
Sudbury
864 Lady Ellen Place
Ottawa ON Canada
K1Z 5M2
Ph: 613 728-3571
Fax: 613 728-6012
217-469 Bouchard Street
Sudbury ON Canada
P3E 2K8
Ph: 705 522-8174
Fax: 705 522-1512
North Bay
200-175 Progress Road
North Bay ON Canada
P1A 0B8
Ph: 705 495-7597
Fax: 705 495-6692
Kingston
Timmins
203-863 Princess Street
Kingston ON Canada
K7L 5N4
Ph: 613 544-1424
Fax: 613 544-5679
201-150 Algonquin Boulevard East
Timmins ON Canada
P4N 1A7
Ph: 705 360-1899
Fax: 705 360-1788
J.L. Richards & Associates Limited
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.jlrichards.ca
Hawkesbury
362 Bertha Street
Hawkesbury ON Canada
K6A 2A8
Ph: 613 632-0287
Fax: 613 632-7603