In response to the need to meet our new population density target of 200 people and jobs per hectare in the Downtown by 2051, we must revisit the current maximum building heights for Downtown as set out by the Downtown Secondary Plan (2015). This study aims to understand where and how new, taller buildings can be permitted in the downtown and what design considerations will be required.
We've been exploring the answers to some simple questions with complicated impacts:
What is tall in the context of Downtown Guelph?
Should the Basilica of Our Lady Immaculate influence the height limits in Downtown Guelph?
What are the positive or negative impacts of additional building height in different locations throughout Downtown?
In response to the need to meet our new population density target of 200 people and jobs per hectare in the Downtown by 2051, we must revisit the current maximum building heights for Downtown as set out by the Downtown Secondary Plan (2015). This study aims to understand where and how new, taller buildings can be permitted in the downtown and what design considerations will be required.
We've been exploring the answers to some simple questions with complicated impacts:
What is tall in the context of Downtown Guelph?
Should the Basilica of Our Lady Immaculate influence the height limits in Downtown Guelph?
What are the positive or negative impacts of additional building height in different locations throughout Downtown?
Between December 9 and January 19, we want to hear from you to help inform where taller buildings may be permitted in the downtown and what building standards are necessary to make that extra height feel right.
Share your comments on the draft revised official plan and built form standards
Downtown Height Study has finished this stage
Were back to share amendment content for the Official Plan starting January 21, 2025. We are seeking your thoughts, comments and questions again, and our team will be out at City Hall on February 4 to share the revisions in person. Drop in between 6 to 8 p.m.
On February 11, the proposed amendments will be brought in front of Council for comment at a special public meeting as well.
Under Review
Downtown Height Study has finished this stage
We will review your feedback and share what we heard in the first two rounds of engagement in March 2025. These findings will be combined with research, best practices and other consultations to refine the OPA and revise the Built Form Standards for review this spring.
Special Council meeting
Downtown Height Study is currently at this stage
On April 8, we're presenting a revised draft OPA to Council at a special council meeting.
We'll share the draft OPA here on March 18.
The Council agenda and full information packet will be posted on the Council calendar starting March 27.
Final report
this is an upcoming stage for Downtown Height Study
We will share back what we heard and and let you know when the final drafts will go to Council in the late spring or early summer 2025.
