The amendments are consistent with Policy 1.1.1 of the PPS. Policies 1.1.3.1, 1.1.3.2 and 1.1.3.3 of the PPS state:

• 1.1.3.1 Settlement areas shall be the focus of growth and development.

• 1.1.3.2 Land use patterns within settlement areas shall be based on densities and a mix of land uses which:

  • a) efficiently use land and resources;

  • b) are appropriate for, and efficiently use, the infrastructure and public service facilities which are planned or available, and avoid the need for their unjustified and/or uneconomical expansion;

  • e) support active transportation;

  • f) are transit-supportive, where transit is planned, exists or may be developed;

• 1.1.3.3 Planning authorities shall identify appropriate locations and promote opportunities for transit-supportive development, accommodating a significant supply and range of housing options through intensification and redevelopment where this can be accommodated taking into account existing building stock or areas, including brownfield sites, and the availability of suitable existing or planned infrastructure and public service facilities required to accommodate projected needs.

The subject parcel is located within the settlement area. The requested amendments promote a land use that makes efficient use of land and existing infrastructure. Active transportation options and transit services are located or planned adjacent to, or near, the subject lands. The subject location represents an appropriate location for intensification.

The amendments are consistent with PPS Policies 1.1.3.1, 1.1.3.2, and 1.1.3.3. Policy 1.4 of the PPS states:

• 1.4.1 To provide for an appropriate range and mix of housing options and densities required to meet projected requirements of current and future residents of the regional market area, planning authorities shall:

  a) maintain at all times the ability to accommodate residential growth for a minimum of 15 years through residential intensification and redevelopment and, if necessary, lands which are designated and available for residential development;

• 1.4.3 Planning authorities shall provide for an appropriate range and mix of housing options and densities to meet projected market-based and affordable housing needs of current and future residents of the regional market area by:

b) permitting and facilitating:

1. all housing options required to meet the social, health, economic and well-being requirements of current and future residents, including special needs requirements and needs arising from demographic changes and employment opportunities;