St. John’s Council Backs Neighbourhood Plan Amendments for Cowan Heights and University Area

St. John’s city council has unanimously adopted in principle a series of Municipal Plan and Development Regulations amendments aimed at implementing new neighbourhood plans for the Cowan Heights and University Area.

The proposed amendments are intended to guide future growth and development in the two areas by identifying locations for higher-density residential housing, mixed-use developments and neighbourhood commercial uses.

According to the city, the changes would include rezonings designed to support a broader range of housing options, create redevelopment opportunities on Newfoundland and Labrador Housing properties, and introduce a new Neighbourhood Infill Zone. The proposed zone is intended to streamline development approvals within designated neighbourhood plan areas.

City officials say the amendments are part of a broader effort to support housing growth and redevelopment while ensuring future development aligns with long-term planning objectives.

With council’s adoption-in-principle now complete, the proposed amendments will be forwarded to the provincial government for review. The amendments will then return to council for the scheduling of a public hearing, where residents will have an opportunity to provide feedback before any final decision is made.

The motion was carried unanimously by council.