New Advisory Committee Appointed: Beaconsfield to Focus on Development of its Territory for Future Generations

BEACONSFIELD, QUEBEC--(Marketwired - Nov. 18, 2015) - Mayor Georges Bourelle announces the appointment of an Advisory Committee on Land-Use Planning and Development to ensure adequate response to the housing needs of future generations of Beaconsfield residents and to promote eco-responsible development of the municipality.

"Citizens live increasingly longer while keeping active. Traditionally, Beaconsfield's residential sector has always been dominated by single-family housing. Cities are now reviewing their residential variety to become more eco-responsible and to propose urban concepts focusing on integrated living, work and leisure environments", explains Mayor Bourelle.

"We are going to undertake a comprehensive study of current and future needs in order to provide citizens with housing opportunities that allow young people to come live with us and to enable those who do not wish to live by themselves in a big house, to continue living in Beaconsfield", indicates the Mayor.

The Municipal Council will appoint an Advisory Committee on Land-Use Planning and Development composed of experts and residents. It will be chaired by Councillor Wade Staddon, former chairperson of the Planning Advisory Committee (PAC) and longest-standing Council member.

"We have chosen a process that is transparent and encourages citizen involvement; it will serve as an example for participatory democracy. The Committee's work will focus on the needs of current and future generations in order to ensure sustainability of the urban environment and to preserve quality of life, while respecting the sense of belonging of our residents to their city", explains the Mayor.

The Advisory Committee will explore new trends in land-use planning and evolving housing needs, including a review of the densification and usage of all City sectors.

"We will launch a call for candidates open to all residents who may be interested in becoming a member of the Advisory Committee based on their interests and background. Following the selection of members, we will establish a work schedule and organize public hearings. Citizens and interest groups are welcome to share their views and comments; they may also elect to submit briefs", added the Mayor.

Once the consultation process is completed, the Committee will submit a report with recommendations for Council to study and analyse.

"The time has come to examine the usage of our territory to address needs and changing demand, not because it is a current trend, but to provide a structured long-term approach in order to ensure the sustainability of what we have built in Beaconsfield", concludes Mayor Georges Bourelle.