Settlement reached in OLT case in Bronte area

The Ontario Land Tribunal (OLT) approved a settlement agreement negotiated by the Town of Oakville regarding the development at the corner of Lakeshore Road and East Street in the Bronte area. In line with the town’s Official Plan – the Livable Oakville Plan – the settlement will result in a 10-storey mixed use building and will require the payment of $790,000 to the town to be spent on local improvements within the Bronte area.

The original application from the developer for 15-storeys was appealed to the OLT by the developer in January 2022. The settlement was authorized by Council on May 2, 2022 and was supported by members of the public attending that meeting.

The revised development conforms with the policies of the town’s Official Plan which allows for consideration of up to 10-storeys if community benefits were provided in exchange for height above six storeys and the development was otherwise considered appropriate for the area.

Policies of this nature were authorized under the former “bonusing” provisions of section 37 of the Planning Act which expire in September 2022. The additional funding must be used for benefits in the Bronte area for matters such as enhancements to parkland, streetscapes, public art and other matters set out in the Official Plan.  

The funds, adjusted for inflation, won’t be received by the town until the developer receives an above-grade building permit. Town Council will determine how best to use the funds within the Bronte area through a future budget process. As always, public comments will be welcomed as part of the budget process.

More information is available in the town’s staff report – item #7.3 in the May 2 Planning and Development Council agenda.

"Oakville grows more livable with this decision that sticks to our unanimous Official Plan. The funds achieved through the use of the bonusing tool will enhance community infrastructure in the Bronte area for all residents to enjoy."

Mayor Rob Burton

“Through public engagement and adhering to the Official Plan, the town was able to deliver a successful outcome for Bronte area residents. When the bonusing funds for community benefits are provided to the town, Council will decide the enhancement initiatives the funds will be put towards to make the Bronte area an even more exciting place to live and visit.”

Ward 1 Regional Councillor Sean O’Meara

“This settlement moves us closer to the town’s vision for Bronte area as a vibrant and thriving neighbourhood. Residents have been waiting for some time to see the decision from the OLT. This is great news for our community and want to thank the many active voices from the neighbourhood that helped inform our approach.”

Ward 1 Town Councillor Beth Robertson