Help shape Surrey’s new Official Community Plan
Feedback needed as plan moves into third phase of engagement
Surrey, B.C. – Residents, businesses, and community organizations have the opportunity to provide input on Surrey’s new Official Community Plan (OCP) that will guide the next chapter of the city’s growth. The public feedback will help refine the policy directions in key areas including housing, transportation and core infrastructure. Phase three’s online survey and workshops will run until April 30.
“The new Official Community Plan will be the blueprint for our city and public feedback will be integral in helping shape the next chapter of our City,” said Mayor Brenda Locke. “This is a unique opportunity for our community to voice their thoughts on the key areas that will guide our city’s growth, from housing and transportation to climate preparedness. I urge Surrey residents, businesses and community organizations to participate in the online survey and workshops, as your insights will play a crucial role in defining Surrey’s future as we plan for long-term development and growth.”
Work on updating the OCP commenced last year, where residents were canvassed about what they love about Surrey, what challenges are facing the city and how they envision the Surrey of the future. The feedback gathered has been used to determine the following eight areas that will be explored in phase three of community engagement:
- Housing
- Economy
- Transportation
- Utility Infrastructure
- Natural Assets, Biodiversity & Green Infrastructure
- Community & Social Infrastructure
- Climate, Natural Hazards & Emergency Preparedness
- Agriculture & Food Systems
“The OCP is a foundational document that builds and guides Surrey for the future. The undertaking of updating an OCP is no easy task,” said Ron Gill, General Manager of Planning and Development. “I am proud of the work City staff have put forward in taking on this immense task and listening to residents about their priorities as we work together to plan for Surrey’s future.”
The current OCP is over 10 years old and new provincial legislation mandates that Official Community Plans must be updated every five years. The new OCP will establish the City’s long-term growth priorities and the tools to help implement them. The new OCP is expected to be completed later this year.
Learn more about the project, sign up for a workshop, and take the survey at surrey.ca/ocp.