The Honourable P. Mitchell Murphy, responding today to media reports on Stratford's proposed official plan, offered some background and comments. The Minister noted that, as required under the Provincial Planning Act, the province has received Stratford's Official Plan and Bylaw for review prior to Ministerial approval. The new Official Plan and Bylaw would replace the four component official plans of the former communities of Southport, Bunbury, Crossroads, and Keppoch-Kinlock.
The Minister stated, "My department has completed a preliminary review of the plan and I wish to commend the Stratford Council, the Planning Board and the residents of Stratford for their efforts in this document". The Minister added, "After almost two years of planning and consultative process, including numerous public meetings, this document goes a long way to finding the delicate balance of meeting the needs of urban and rural residents and farmers within the community."
The Minister indicated that Stratford has proposed agricultural zones which take in about 40% of the community and which will protect farming in perpetuity. He also noted that new intensive farming operations will not be permitted in residential zones, but existing operations will be permitted as long as they continue operations annually. The Minister stated "I am seeking clarification on the 'non-conforming' requirement provisions and its impact on certain types of farming operations. I will not be approving any provision which encourages poor stewardship of the land, such as requiring potato farmers to grow potatoes every year in order to retain their non-conforming status".
Stratford has stated in its official plan that it intends to work with the farming community to encourage responsible agricultural practices, and to foster a better level of understanding between residents and farmers. "I find this statement very encouraging and I believe that by working together, all interests can be addressed," said the Minister.
Mr. Murphy concluded by saying that "I am satisfied with 99% of the contents of the Official Plan and Bylaw. Again, Stratford should be praised for the very fine balance that this plan has achieved. We are currently in contact with Stratford, and the agricultural interests that have expressed concern. We will be meeting with both of these groups within the next few days and hopefully a resolution can be found to satisfy all parties".
For more information, contact Albert MacDonald, Dept. Of Community & Cultural Affairs, at (902) 368-5582.