The Thompson Development Plan is a much higher-level planning document than our Zoning By-Law, and breaks the city down into broad "policy areas" that guide decision-making.
The Development Plan is not a zoning document. It doesn't strictly outline what can be built within an area of the city, but rather envisions a certain kind of character and mode of use. It does, however, guide future decisions in how areas may be re-zoned to accommodate new uses.
The "Established Neighbourhoods" Policy Area, for example, does not mean that only housing will be developed in the area. Rather, it broadly envisions a mix of single-family and medium-density housing, improved walkability and access to goods and recreation, and consideration for sustainable energy practices. To achieve that goal, it can include both residential, commercial, and recreational land uses, governed by several different zoning types.
The Thompson Zoning By-Law is the clear and detailed document that determines what kind of building can be built where, and the requirements for any such development within a permitted zone. This includes details like permitted uses, building spacing, parking requirements, and more.
In Thompson, there are five main zones: residential, commercial, industrial, public institution, and urban holding. Each of these is divided into more specific zones that have more specific requirements.
Anyone undertaking constructions or renovations within a property should be familiar with what is and isn't permitted within their zone. Minor variances can be granted within a zone following review by City Council and the Inspections department, or an area can be re-zoned in order to accommodate a new type of development. These processes are not guaranteed, and should be started well before construction is expected to begin.
The Sustainable Community Plan looks at Thompson's future development in the context of it's past, and the challenges that have resulted from it. It reframes Thompson from a single-industry community with an uncertain future to a regional service hub that aims to thrive indefinitely. It considers 13 key themes including asset management, community lifestyle, preserving the natural environment, and more.
The Master Parks Plan envisons a plan for the revitalization and maintenance of Thompson's recreational spaces, from sports courts and green parks to snowmobile trails and forest paths.
