Future growth areas (shown in purple) for East Vernon area of RDNO (RDNO image)

By Pete McIntyre

regional plan

RDNO targets land for future growth

May 23, 2024 | 2:00 PM

The Regional District of North Okanagan board has given its preliminary support to changes to its Regional Growth Strategy bylaw.

The RDNO says the amendments identify new parcels for future growth in areas like East and West Vernon, Coldstream and Armstrong-Spallumcheen among others.

It also adds two new land designations: Employment Lands and Employment Lands – Agriculture (see below for more details).

The proposed changes will now be forwarded to member municipalities and adjacent regional districts for consideration.

EMPLOYMENT LANDS are defined as vacant or underutilized lands that have been identified in the Regional Employment Lands Action plan or other Land Use Plans for clusters of business and economic uses and activities.

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It was determined there are few vacant employment lands within the region with a limited diversity of uses in each community.

Employment lands are intended to accommodate a number of uses, including, but not limited to, institutional, manufacturing, processing and industrial activities.

EMPLOYMENT LANDS – AGRICULTURE are areas that have been identified for agricultural businesses that strengthen food security and opportunities to provide locally grown and processed food.

“The North Okanagan is home to a rich agricultural history, and as the region’s agricultural communities continue to grow, innovation and new opportunities for farmers must be considered to achieve a Regenerative Agricultural Network by bringing together natural systems of production with agri-technologies that enhance production, resulting in new jobs and increased localized food system,”RDNO stated.

If these lands are located within the Agricultural Land Reserve, any proposed uses would need to conform with the ALC regulations and or seek approval from the commission.

Check the RDNO’s website and agenda for details and maps on the areas targeted for future growth.