Ontario Land Tribunal Supports Town of Fort Erie’s Opposition Stance On Housing Development in ‘Historic Waterfront’ Area

“The decision by (The Ontario Land Tribunal) recognizes the importance of Council insisting that development projects reflect our vision for growth in our community. That vision includes setting policies that follow provincial policies and legislation but, more importantly, that require new developments to complement the existing area and benefit the community.”                                       – Fort Erie Mayor, Wayne Redekop

News from the Town of Fort Erie in Niagara, Ontario

Posted May 2nd, 2024 on Niagara At Large

FORT ERIE, Ontario –  The Town of Fort Erie’s decision to oppose a development proposal along its historic waterfront properties on Erie Road was upheld by the Ontario Land Tribunal. 

On Monday, April 29, 2024, the Ontario Land Tribunal (OLT) dismissed an appeal to amend the Town of Fort Erie’s Zoning By-law (No. 129-90) sought by Crystal Bay Cottages Inc. to permit the redevelopment of their property at 4409 Erie Road in the community of Crystal Beach.

The proposal requested a rezoning of the property from its current Waterfront Residential (WR) zoning to allow eight new housing units to be built.

On March 20, 2023, The Council of the Town refused the Zoning By-law Amendment (“ZBA”) on the basis that:

  • the proposed development was not compatible with the character of the surrounding established residential neighbourhood,
  • this traditional neighbourhood is outside the development area and was not envisioned for infilling and intensification,
  • and the proposed development did not provide for adequate open space on-site.
  • This led the developer to appeal the decision through the Ontario Land Tribunal.

“Growth may be inevitable, but the type, the amount and location of growth  must be balanced and compatible with the community?s vision and their  needs.  We are very pleased with the Ontario Land Tribunal decision that  reinforces that communities are best suited to make planning decisions  about compatibility, density and location of growth that is both  manageable and responsible.” – Chris McQueen, Chief Administrative Officer. Town of Fort Erie

 “I am delighted to hear about the recent decision from the Ontario Land Tribunal, which acknowledged the concerns of the community, local council, and town staff and understood this proposed project’s true nature and impact. We must ensure that our community’s growth is harmonious with the needs and aligns with our vision for our growing community.” 
– Ward 5 Councillor  Tom Lewis

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