The City of Port Colborne has initiated the development of a new Official Plan. This plan will establish a long-term vision for managing growth, infrastructure, land use, development, and environmental protection in Port Colborne through 2056.

What is an Official Plan?

An Official Plan is a key planning document that guides land use and sets a long-term vision for community growth and development. It includes goals and policies that outline:

  • Where homes, businesses, and infrastructure should be located
  • How to protect natural and built environments
  • How to foster sustainable growth

In Ontario, all planning decisions must align with the Provincial Planning Statement (PPS). Port Colborne’s new Official Plan will implement these provincial directions while considering local priorities.

Purpose of the new Official Plan

The City of Port Colborne’s current Official Plan was approved in 2013 and last updated in 2017. In accordance with the Planning Act, municipalities are required to review their Official Plans at least every 10 years. Since the last update, significant provincial, regional, and local planning regulatory changes have occurred. Port Colborne’s new Official Plan will address:

  • Major provincial policy shifts

The Province of Ontario has introduced new planning rules and priorities. The new Official Plan will ensure Port Colborne aligns with these updated requirements.

  • Increased local decision-making authority

Previously, the Niagara Region was the primary approval authority for most planning decisions. Recent changes have transferred this responsibility to municipalities. Port Colborne’s new Official Plan will integrate the Niagara Region’s Official Plan to create one unified framework for future growth. The shift in planning authority provides greater local control, and ensures planning decisions reflect what best serves Port Colborne.

  • New Provincial Planning Statement (2024)

Port Colborne’s new Official Plan must align with the provincial directions outlined in the 2024 Provincial Planning Statement.

  • Housing and economic growth

Recent provincial initiatives aim to accelerate housing construction and support development. These priorities will be incorporated into the new Official Plan, ensuring Port Colborne is well positioned for future growth.

Project Timeline

 

Port Colborne’s new Official Plan is scheduled for completion in August 2026. Below is an overview of the project phases:

Phase 1 – Complete

  • Background research and initial consultations have been completed.

Phase 2 – Ongoing

  • Analysis to identify policy directions is underway.
  • Public engagement is set to begin in February 2026.

Phase 3 – Spring 2026

  • A draft of the Official Plan will be shared, along with further public engagement opportunities.
  • A standard Statutory Public Meeting will be held in July 2026.

Final Phase – August 2026

  • Port Colborne City Council will review the new Official Plan.

Have Your Say

Public engagement is a critical component of developing Port Colborne’s new Official Plan. Your feedback ensures the plan reflects the priorities and best interests of Port Colborne residents.

Regular updates and information about upcoming engagement opportunities will be shared on this webpage and through the City of Port Colborne’s social media channels. We look forward to working with you to shape the future of Port Colborne!

Frequently Asked Questions 

How does the removal of the Niagara Region’s planning authority affect this project?
 As a result of Bill 23, the City of Port Colborne is now the primary approval authority for Official Plan amendments and development applications. However, the 2022 Niagara Official Plan (NOP) remains in effect. The City of Port Colborne will review and integrate its policies to ensure the new Official Plan aligns with regional guidance.
How can I get involved?

The City of Port Colborne is committed to an open and ongoing community engagement process. Residents will have multiple opportunities to provide input and share ideas as the project progresses. Updates and information about upcoming engagement opportunities will be shared on this webpage and through the City of Port Colborne’s social media channels.

When will the new Official Plan be completed?

The City of Port Colborne’s new Official Plan is expected to be completed in August 2026. The project will follow a phased approach, including background research, policy analysis, public engagement, and review by Port Colborne City Council.

Resources

September 23, 2025 – Update on Port Colborne New Official Plan Project

October 28, 2025 – Council Workshop: New Official Plan

Contact

The City of Port Colborne welcomes your input and is committed to keeping the community informed throughout the development of the new Official Plan. For questions or additional information, please contact Customer Service, 905-835-2900.