Public Enagement

Land Use Bylaw and Municipal Planning Strategy

The Town of new Glasgow is excited to welcome you to voice your opinion in the process of developing a new Land Use Bylaw and Municipal Planning Strategy.
Through a blend of online and in-person public engagement sessions, the Town intends to gather citizen feedback in the areas of:

1. Housing: affordability, urban design and density
2. Community building: inclusive and diverse neighbourhoods
3. Climate change: adaption, GHG reduction and sustainability
4. Business attraction and retention
5. Transportation and other infrastructure

Your feedback is extremely valuable in shaping the future development of the Town. Please make sure to voice your opinion at one of the following public engagement sessions:

Session 1:
Saturday, February 15th, 2025
9 a.m. to 12 p.m.
New Glasgow Farmers Market, 261 Glasgow St, New Glasgow, NS B2H 5C2

Session 2:
Saturday, February 15th, 2025
12:30 p.m. to 2:30 p.m.
New Glasgow Public Library, 182 Dalhousie St, New Glasgow, NS B2H 5E3

More in-person sessions to follow!

Alternatively, you can participate via an online survey here. The survey will be available starting February 15th, 2025.

What is a Land Use Bylaw?

A Land Use Bylaw (LUB) is a municipal regulation that governs how land and buildings can be used and developed within a specific area. It typically includes zoning rules, specifying what types of activities (residential, commercial, industrial, etc.) are allowed in different zones of a municipality.

Key Components of a Land Use Bylaw:

• Zoning Regulations: Defines land use zones (e.g., residential, commercial, industrial) and what is permitted in each.
• Development Standards: Outlines rules for lot sizes, building heights, setbacks, and density.
• Permitted and Discretionary Uses: Lists activities or developments that are automatically allowed and those that require municipal approval.
• Subdivision Rules: Regulates how land can be divided into lots.
• Special Provisions: May include heritage preservation, environmental protection, parking, signage, or home-based businesses.

Purpose of a Land Use Bylaw:

• Ensures orderly growth and development.
• Balances community needs, property rights, and environmental protection.
• Helps municipalities manage infrastructure, traffic, and services efficiently.

In New Glasgow (or any town in Pictou County), the LUB would be an important tool for guiding development while preserving the character of the community.

What is a Municipal Planning Strategy?

A Municipal Planning Strategy (MPS) is a guiding document that outlines a municipality’s long-term vision for land use, development, and growth. It provides the framework for making planning decisions and is typically implemented through Land Use Bylaws (LUBs) and other policies.

Key Elements of a Municipal Planning Strategy:

• Vision & Goals: Defines the municipality’s long-term vision for development, sustainability, and community growth.
• Land Use Policies: Guides how different areas of the municipality will be developed (e.g., residential, commercial, industrial, recreational).
• Infrastructure & Transportation: Addresses roads, transit, water, sewer, and other essential services.
• Housing & Economic Development: Encourages affordable housing, economic growth, and job creation.
• Environmental Protection: Includes policies for green spaces, natural resources, and climate resilience.
• Cultural & Heritage Considerations: Protects historical sites and promotes local identity.

How It Works With a Land Use Bylaw:

• The MPS sets the vision and policy framework, while the Land Use Bylaw enforces the specific regulations (zoning, building requirements, etc.).
• The MPS is broad and policy-driven, whereas the LUB is detailed and regulatory.
• Changes to the LUB must align with the MPS, and amendments to the MPS usually require public consultation and council approval.

In New Glasgow, the MPS would shape future development while balancing economic growth, environmental sustainability, and community needs.