The City of Courtenay is launching an update of the Official Community Plan (OCP) that will guide long-term decisions on land use, housing, transportation, infrastructure and more.
The Province has shifted to a more proactive planning model, which requires all communities to update their housing need reports by the end of the year. The new reports have to look at housing needs projected over the next 20 years. Communities also have to update their zoning bylaws to align with their OCPs and Housing Needs Reports by the end of the year. These new requirements, introduced in 2023, are part of a suite of housing legislation to help accelerate housing supply, and to make communities take a more proactive planning approach.
"The updated OCP will build upon the existing policies of Courtenay鈥檚 current OCP adopted in 2022, and guide smart, inclusive and well-supported growth," a release from the city says. "The OCP鈥檚 vision and values include reconciliation, climate action, equity and community well-being."
鈥淭he previous OCP had a planning horizon of 2030 and was based on 2016 census data population projections available at the time,鈥� said Marianne Wade, Director of Development Services. 鈥淪ince then, we鈥檝e learned we鈥檙e growing faster than expected. The Province has added requirements to plan for a longer time frame and align zoning bylaws to meet housing demands. It鈥檚 an important time to check-in with the community on how Courtenay can grow in the years ahead 鈥� in a way that reflects the existing spirit of the OCP.鈥�
The OCP update will start with two virtual events hosted by the city to allow the community to learn more about the update. People can attend one of two kick-off virtual information sessions on Monday, June 16, 2025, from noon-1 p.m. or 5-6 p.m.
Both sessions will have the same content and format, starting with a short presentation followed by questions and answers with project staff and consultants. Pre-registration is encouraged to get the virtual link in advance.
Public engagement opportunities will be shared throughout the spring and summer on the project page. The OCP update will expand housing choices by updating land use designations and associated policies, aligned with recent strategic plans and policy updates for consistency and coordination across plans. It will also outline how growth needs to be supported by infrastructure, parks, open spaces and amenities. To learn more, visit .
