West Rossdale Urban Design Plan

• determine the best future use of lands in West Rossdale;
• provide development guidelines that reference the rich history of the area;
• enhance West Rossdale as a main entrance or gateway to downtown.

West Rossdale Planning Process

Planning for West Rossdale began with the rediscovery of the area's past through historical and archaeological studies.

An Urban Design Plan was then prepared with the involvement of Rossdale residents, aboriginal groups and other major stakeholders to give a concept of what West Rossdale can and should be.

Finally, amendments to the Rossdale Area Redevelopment Plan and the Zoning Bylaw were prepared to implement the previous work and allow for the creation of a complete, diverse urban village that commemorates and respects its history.

Purpose of the Plan

The Urban Design Plan addresses future land uses, streetscape concepts, design guidelines and a servicing upgrade plan for this unique river valley neighbourhood. An important aspect of the Plan is acknowledging Rossdale's location within the river valley, a major entrance way to downtown and its historical and archaeological significance. Should the three area properties (Ortona Armouries, Aboriginal Cemetery and Archaeological Block) receive Federal designation from the National Historic Monuments Board, the development rights of property owners will remain as they are today pursuant to the City's zoning and other bylaws.

A high quality of design excellence and attention to the public environment of parks, streets, squares, trails, public buildings, signage and exterior architecture will contribute to the area's success and ensure that each project fully contributes to community building and positive renewal.

Amendments to the Zoning Bylaw: West Rossdale Area

The purpose of these amendments is to implement the Urban Design Plan and the proposed amendments to the Rossdale Area Redevelopment Plan Bylaw through a direct development control provision (DC1) for each of the West Rossdale Areas.

The West Rossdale Urban Design Plan and Direct Development Control Provisions for each of the West Rossdale Areas were approved by Council on August 29, 2011.

For more information:

Rob Marchak

Scott Pragnell