After a decade of being in effect, the City’s Planning Division will update the Urban Design Guidelines. Changes to the Zoning By-law and evolving best practices mean the current guidelines no longer reflect the best ways to get people to visit, work or live in a particular area.

The guidelines address issues not covered through the Zoning By-law such as accessibility, parking, landscaping, lighting, and stormwater management. The guidelines are often used by planning staff to determine if a planning application should be approved.

“Good urban design can help people feel happier and calmer,” said Jillian Fazio, Acting Senior Planner.

“Well-designed sites maintain their appeal and make our city a better place to live.”

Planning Services wants to get feedback on the proposed updates to the Urban Design Guidelines. A public survey will be open for comment until March 15. The feedback will be incorporated in reports to Council in April 2024.

To comment on the proposed updates, please visit www.thunderbay.ca/getinvolved.