SURREY — Surrey council gave third reading to its OCP on Monday.
The Official Community Plan (OCP) is a vision for the city for the next three decades.
A report to council stated, "Based on an analysis of the comments received at public hearing, staff is of the opinion that the OCP document is complete in its current state. As a 'living document,' the OCP is expected to be amended from time to time as policy is further developed, and as significant plans such as NCPs, Town Centre plans and the Biodiversity Conservation Strategy are completed and approved by council."
Staff emphasized that it is a living document, and can be amended regularly as approved by council. As well, staff said every application is judged on its own merit and the public has an opportunity to speak to each one.
At a public hearing on March 10, residents raised concerns about density, transportation, public safety and the environment.
David Cann spoke on March 10 against planned density in the Semiahmoo Town Centre, on behalf of the Semiahmoo Residents Association, saying the area is expected to do "more than its share" and that there's a shortage of infrastructure to support the increase in population.
The Official Community Plan was three years in the making and outlines the city's overall vision over the next 30 years, addressing social, economic and environmental challenges like managing population growth, funding public infrastructure and developing sustainable communities.
To see the OCP in its entirety, visit http://surrey.ca/cityservices/1318.aspx.
Twitter @amyreid87
With files from Jacob Zinn