Springfield’s draft zoning bylaw to be revised: consultant

The RM of Springfield’s draft new zoning bylaw will be reviewed again by the municipal council, with suggested areas for revision, the MHCA heard at the October 28 virtual public hearing.

The MHCA has submitted a number of suggested revisions to the draft bylaw, to ensure that new aggregate pits and quarries are permitted and existing operations are also protected.

A number of those suggestions have been taken under advisement and are likely to be included in the revisions, which are to go to the RM council soon, the WSP consultant told those listening online.

Among the MHCA suggestions, drawn up by representatives of the aggregate industry, were requests for clarity in language that aggregate applications in permitted zones do not need development agreements; that height restrictions accommodate the equipment typically found in aggregate operations; and, that setbacks from property lines and residences conform to provincially legislated setback limits.

It is unknown exactly which of the suggestions will be incorporated. The next version of the draft bylaw is expected to be released late this year or early next year, when another public hearing will be held.

“We expect to continue our discussions with Springfield, including the administration but it is encouraging that our messages are being considered seriously,” MHCA President Chris Lorenc said. “It is a good working relationship and we want to build on that.”