Council directs revisions to Draft Land Use Plan

Following a public hearing on June 25, 2026, the Municipality of the District of Lunenburg Council passed a motion directing planning staff to revisit and revise Draft 3 of the Land Use Planning framework in response to public submissions and discussion, particularly regarding the proposed Agriculture Potential Zone.

The decision follows a lengthy hearing where residents shared feedback on several aspects of the draft plan, including agricultural land designation, permitted land uses, and the potential impact on property rights and future development opportunities.

Council acknowledged the importance of the concerns raised and agreed that additional review is needed before the plan proceeds to second reading.

“Residents took the time to come forward and share thoughtful and, in some cases, very personal concerns,” said Mayor McLean-Wile. “Council wants to ensure we fully consider that input and take a careful, balanced approach before making any decisions.”

As part of this next phase, planning staff will review public submissions and Council discussion to identify potential revisions, provide additional clarity, and ensure the proposed framework aligns with provincial requirements while considering the impacts on property owners.

The Municipality has been working on the Land Use Planning framework since 2020, with multiple opportunities for public participation throughout the process. Feedback from the public hearing will play an important role in shaping the next version of the draft.

“We recognize that these are important decisions for our communities,” said McLean-Wile. “This review will help ensure the plan reflects both community input and long-term planning objectives.”

An updated draft will be presented to Council on July 14, and additional public information sessions will be conducted before Council proceeds to Second Reading. The plan must be sent to the Province for final approval.

The Municipal Planning Strategy and Land Use By-law are scheduled to return to Council for consideration of First Reading on July 14, 2026, at 6:00 p.m. in the Municipal Office Council Chambers. All are welcome to attend.

Date: Tuesday, July 14, 2026

Time: 6:00 p.m.

Location: Council Chambers, Municipal Office, 10 Allée Champlain Drive, Cookville NS

For more information, please contact Planning Staff at planning@modl.ca or (902) 530-2802.