A local municipality has signed off on proposed changes in the way greenhouse developments are handled.
At its meeting Tuesday night, Lakeshore Council approved adjustments to Essex County's Official Plan Amendment, which would restrict commercial greenhouse developments throughout Lakeshore.
"Greenhouses have been a concern for many of our residents, and we’re happy to see our vision for a comprehensive regulatory regime take shape," said Mayor Tracey Bailey. "While we have recognized that we are not able to stop greenhouses altogether, these measures ensure that our residents, as well as Lakeshore’s rich agricultural land, are protected."
If implemented by the county, the following requirements for greenhouse developments would take effect.
1,000-metre setbacks from all secondary settlement areas.
550-metre setbacks from all residential properties.
5,000-metre setbacks from the Hallam Observatory.
The elimination of lighting and odours.
The plan amendments also include a master drainage study to evaluate the watershed drainage systems and mitigate flood control and erosion; a water quality study to monitor the downstream impacts of greenhouse activities, and a financial and community impact study.
Essex County Council, as the top-tier governing body, will have the final say on Lakeshore's Official Plan and the amendments.