--Gatineau’s new Zoning bylaw approved by Qc municipal commission

The Commission Municipale du Québec (CMQ) has officially approved the city of Gatineau’s new zoning by-law. According to a press release issued by the city on July 5, the CMQ stated that the bylaw aligned with the aspirations outlined in Gatineau's new Land Use and Development Plan (SADR) and Urban Plan. The city initially adopted its new Urban Plan and Zoning bylaw on November 17, 2020. But on April 13, a collective of applicants filed a Notice of Compliance to the CMQ, claiming that the city’s new zoning by-law – specifically a specification grid for Zone HA-13-127 where the bylaw allows the construction of five-storey buildings – did not conform with its Land Use and Development Plan.

The CMQ said the city’s Land Use and Development Plan calls for more density in the area, and that the Zoning bylaw’s building standards in that zone – such as augmenting the number of units and floors – are favourable for attaining such population-volume ambitions.

The city explained that its urban plan serves as a guide for SADR’s five major focus points, which include managing growth to improve economic efficiency and competitiveness; promoting sustainable transportation methods; enriching natural and cultural heritage; protecting the environment; and keeping people and their properties safe.

Thrilled with the CMQ’s decision, Commission sur de développement du territoire, l’habitation, et de l’environnement President and Plateau district councillor Maude Marquis-Bissonnette said the long-awaited Zoning bylaw approval will open the door for a number of important projects to make progress. “The Zoning bylaw is an essential tool for optimal planning and management of the various components of our municipal territory for the coming years,” Marquis-Bissonnette said in the press release. “The new Zoning bylaw supports the sustainable development of our city by preserving sensitive natural spaces and by densifying areas near public transit arteries,” she added.