Zoning changes aim to expand uses in 402 Business Park

New planning changes aimed at increasing flexibility for businesses in the 402 Business Park will be discussed at an upcoming council meeting.

The City of Sarnia is proposing zoning updates to allow more flexibility in how certain employment lands can be used, particularly in the 402 Business Park area. The proposed changes are scheduled to be discussed at the April 27 city council meeting.

The previously proposed Prestige Employment Zone has been replaced with a new Highway Business District (HBD) zone. This new designation broadens the range of permitted uses, including hotels, restaurants, retail, offices, automotive businesses, assembly halls, and light industrial uses, while still focusing on employment-related development.

The city has also reduced the minimum interior side-yard setback requirement from 7.5 metres to 3.0 metres, aligning it with existing provincial standards and allowing for more efficient site design.

These changes are intended to maintain a strong focus on job creation while offering greater flexibility for development.