An Official Plan is a vision or guideline document established under the Planning Act that outlines the goals, objectives and policies necessary to manage growth and provide direction for the use of lands.
In 2014, the United Counties retained MMM Group Limited in partnership with Hemson Consulting, to assist with the preparation of the Official Plan. The Plan was developed through extensive consultation with community members and stakeholders over several years. Local municipalities, Provincial Ministries and Conservation Authorities also participated in its preparation.
The Counties Official Plan provides policy direction on matters of County-wide significance. It is intended to be a high level document with a vision and direction that is supported by all ten member municipalities. The goal of the Official Plan is to ensure a balanced approach to growth management and the protection and conservation of the Counties' natural and cultural heritage, while encouraging development opportunities in a way that respects the Counties' unique character and sense of place.
The local municipalities will continue to manage and administer detailed land use planning through their local municipal Official Plans, which will remain in effect to guide local decision-making. As part of the approval of the new Official Plan, the Province delegated to the Counties the authority to approve all local Official Plans and local Official Plan Amendments.