London ON Looks at Easing Zoning Rules for High-Density Housing

City politicians are considering significant changes to zoning laws in London's busiest spots, potentially opening the door for more mixed-use highrises. This effort aims to address the city's booming population and housing demands.

At a council meeting in September, the city's planning committee will review a proposal to automatically allow commercial and residential mixed-use buildings in downtown areas and main transit corridors. This could mean storefronts or offices on lower levels and apartments above, creating a more integrated urban environment.

Deputy Mayor Shawn Lewis emphasized the need to plan not just for current housing needs but for future growth. He advocated for a 'forward-thinking' approach to density and building heights, hinting that revisiting zoning laws too frequently slows progress.

A key part of the plan is to approve highrise buildings 'as-of-right.' This means developments would still need to go through council but wouldn't require special exceptions or zoning variances. This policy aims to streamline approvals and reduce bureaucratic red tape.

Despite revising the London Plan (the city's growth blueprint) last September to address rapid population growth, the city must meet obligations tied to federal funds received from the Housing Accelerator Fund. This includes mandating high-density housing near major transit hubs and allowing fourplexes on any lot.

Proposed changes under the London Plan include significant increases in building heights: up to 45 storeys downtown, 30 storeys in transit villages, and varying heights along rapid transit and urban corridors. These increases aim to align zoning regulations with actual market needs and streamline future development projects.

Deputy Mayor Lewis and Mike Wallace from the London Development Institute both believe less restrictive zoning will help ease housing shortages and reduce the city's dependence on cars, particularly in dense, transit-friendly areas.

The public will have the opportunity to weigh in on these proposed changes at the council's planning committee meeting on September 10. It's a chance to influence how London's busiest areas will look and function in the coming years.