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Staff Report
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Report To: Planning and Development Committee
Date of Meeting: June 23, 2020 Report Number: PSD-021-20
Submitted By: Faye Langmaid, Acting Director of Planning Services
Reviewed By: Andrew C. Allison, CAO Resolution#:
File Number: COPA 2020-0002 (PLN 41.10) By-law Number:
Report Subject: Public Meeting – Southeast Courtice Secondary Plan
Recommendations:
1. That Report PSD-021-20 be received;
2. That the proposed Secondary Plan and Official Plan Amendment (COPA 2020 -
0002) continue to be reviewed and processed and that a subsequent
recommendation report be prepared; and staff report back to Council with a
Recommendation Report; and
3. That all interested parties listed in Report PSD-021-20 and any delegations be
advised of Council’s direction regarding this Public Meeting report.
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1. Background – Secondary Plans
1.1 A Secondary Plan provides more detail than the Official Plan about how a
neighbourhood is to develop. This neighbourhood scale planning allows for a more
detailed analysis of land use and transportation issues and specific ways to achieve the
objectives of the Clarington Official Plan, including meeting density and infill targets.
1.2 A Secondary Plan provides the structure for the various components of a neighborhood,
such as how to best provide locations for housing, commercial, and parks and
amenities, as well as planning the mobility between them and the rest of the community
at large. Ultimately, a Secondary Plan establishes the character and identity of the
neighbourhood while promoting efficient land use and development
1.3 The preparation or amendment to a Secondary Plan follows the same procedures as an
Official Plan Amendment under the Planning Act. This includes the preparation of
supporting technical studies, public engagement, notice and holding of public meetings
and adoption procedures. The Region of Durham is the final approval authority for
Secondary Plans.
2. Southeast Courtice Secondary Plan
2.1 The Southeast Courtice Secondary Plan (SECSP) area is located generally between the
Robinson Creek valley in the west and Hancock Road in the east. It extends from south
of Bloor Street northward to Durham Highway 2. There are approximately 60
landowners within this Secondary Plan area. There is a mixture of parcel sizes within
the Secondary Plan area, including larger farm parcels and residential lots.
Report Overview
This report will provide an overview of the planning process for Secondary Plans, a brief
overview of the Planning Policy framework in which the Secondary Plan has been
developed, a summary of public and agency comments received to date, as well as an
overview of the Southeast Courtice Secondary Plan and the Urban Design and Sustainability
Guidelines.
The Southeast Courtice Secondary Plan will create complete neighbourhoods that will
include a diverse housing mix located within walking distance to shopping, services, schools
and amenities. The protection of the natural heritage system is a priority.
Excellence in urban design will be pursued to promote healthy and active lifestyles by
integrating the mix of land uses with active transportation connections th roughout.
The purpose of the statutory public meeting is to obtain comments from the public, land an d
stakeholders and commenting agencies on the proposed Secondary Plan.
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Figure 1: Southeast Courtice Secondary Plan Area
2.2 The Secondary Plan area contains the headwaters and tributaries of Tooley Creek and
Robinson Creek. These watercourses, and their associated woodlots and wetlands add
interest and structure to this area. These features are being assessed through the
Robinson Creek and Tooley Creeks Subwatershed Study (SWS).
2.3 The Secondary Plan area consists of: agricultural fields and buildings, single detached
dwellings, places of worship, a flea market complex on Bloor Street, a retail plaza and
the Courtice Paramedic Response Station. The Area is surrounded on the north and
west with predominantly low-density residential neighbourhoods and some commercial
properties.
2.4 East of the Secondary Plan area, outside of the Urban Boundary, is a strip of non -farm
estate residential units, agricultural lands, and wooded areas associated with a branch
of the Tooley Creek. Highway 418 is also located approximately 300-400 meters east of
the Secondary Plan area and Hancock Road.
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2.5 The lands south of the Secondary Plan are also located within the Courtice Urban Area.
They are currently a mixture of agricultural and residential parcels. These lands are
designated for Employment Uses and more recently identified by the Province and the
Region as a Major Transit Station area. These lands are currently the subject of the
ongoing Courtice Employment Lands Secondary Plan.
3. Initiation of the Secondary Plan
3.1 According to Council policies, the Landowner Group for the area sent the Municipality a
request to initiate the project and commitment to fund the project 100%. The Southeast
Courtice Secondary Plan was initiated following a Public Meeting before Council in
January 2018. The general public and all landowners (60+) within the Secondary Plan
area were invited to this meeting. Notice of the meeting was also advertised in the
Clarington This Week and Orono Times newspapers and municipal website for the two
weeks preceding the meeting. Staff Report PSD-011-18 outlined the proposed planning
process, the composition of the steering committee and the Terms of Reference for the
project. The Planning and Development Committee recommendation was ratified by
Council on February 5, 2018.
3.2 The Terms of Reference included the requirement of the project being led by a
Technical Steering Committee. The Steering Committee includes Municipal, Region of
Durham and CLOCA staff, the Landowner Group project manager, two landowner
representatives and the lead Consultant for the Municipality.
3.3 As provided in the Terms of Reference, and the Secondary Plan is to address these five
Council priorities:
Sustainability and Climate Change
3.3.1. Clarington Council adopted a sustainable, “green lens” approach to development
throughout the Official Plan. This Secondary Plan will address the criteria developed for
Secondary Plans in Clarington’s Green Development Program and will be guided by the
Priority Green Development Framework. Sustainable development principles and
practices shall be infused into every part of the Secondary Plan, including the design of
neighbourhoods and arrangement of land uses.
Excellence in Urban Design
3.3.2. The goal for any new development is that it celebrates and enhances the history and
character of Clarington. New neighbourhoods are to be created with a sense of place
and all development should result in a high-quality design. Excellence in urban design
will consider elements like building design, complete streets, views, park connectivity,
sun and shadow impacts, and active transportation as well as the integration of green
infrastructure in neighborhood design.
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Affordable Housing
3.3.3. Clarington Council, through Official Plan policy supports the provision of a variety of
housing types, tenure and costs for people of all ages, abilities and income groups. The
Secondary Plan reflects this policy as well as recommendations found in Clarington’s
Affordable Housing Toolkit. Through policy this Plan demonstrates how it contributes to
meeting Council’s affordable housing target.
3.3.4. We consider that additional work needs to be undertaken to ensure affordable housing
is developed through the right combination of policies and incentives. The proposed
policies in the draft Secondary Plan may be further refined by the time staff presents a
recommendation report.
Community Engagement
3.3.5. Clarington Council is committed to community consultation and engagement. The
preparation of this Secondary Plan has and will continue to be supported by a thorough
public engagement strategy, including a range of public consultation initiatives. These
efforts will be in addition to any statutory meetings requirements.
Coordination of Initiatives
3.3.6. The following studies have been undertaken at the s ame time as the Secondary Plan
and have been incorporated into the study process.
Environmental Assessment Process
3.3.7. An Environmental Assessment (EA) will be required for all new major (collector and
arterial) roads required for the Southeast Courtice Secondary Plan. All public notices,
communications and review periods will be designed to ensure that they conform to the
requirements of both the Planning Act and Municipal Class EA. To avoid confusing the
public with multiple messages and focus Municipal resources more effectively this
project was designed to jointly satisfy the requirements of both the Planning Act and the
Environmental Assessment Act.
3.3.8. Key public consultation elements of the EA process include:
Notifications: All project notices must demonstrate clear indication of the integrated
EA and Planning Act approach;
Mandatory Consultation: Engagement with review agencies and the public
regarding the problem/opportunity and alternative solutions is a key component for
the EA process; and
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Completion: at study completion a Notice is to be prepared advising agencies and
the public of the study completion and the opportunity to review the pro ject
reporting.
Indigenous Communities Consultation
3.3.9 Both the Planning Act the EA require consultation with indigenous communities. At the
time of writing this report many of the Indigenous Community offices are closed due to
COVID-19. Staff have provided background materials and copies of all notice material
to each Office. Prior to reporting back with a recommendation, staff will ensure that
consultation with the each of the required Indigenous communities has been meaningful
and has met the requirements of both Acts.
Robinson Creek and Tooley Creek Subwatershed Study
3.3.10 The Secondary Plan area is located within the watersheds of the Robinson Creek and
Tooley Creek. The Robinson and Tooley Watersheds are two of the smallest
watersheds within the Municipality of Clarington and are especially vulnerable to the
effects of changing land use and the impact of development. The Robinson Creek
watershed is predominantly urban. It is situated almost completely within the Urban
Area of Courtice. The Robinson Creek drains into Lake Ontario through the McLaughlin
Bay Wetland Complex.
3.3.11 The Municipality of Clarington initiated a Subwatershed Study (SWS) for these
combined watersheds in late 2017 with field work taking place in 2018 and 2019. The
SWS, similar to the Secondary Plans, has a Steering Committee made of Clarington,
Region and CLOCA staff, a Landowner Group Representative and two landowners.
The existing Conditions Report was released for public comment, and a public meeting
was held in November 2019. Over 4000 landowners were invited to this meeting
however less than 10% attended.
3.3.12 The Existing Conditions Report has investigated and inventoried the natural resources
that could potentially be impacted by future urban development. This Report also
identifies constraints and opportunities which will be considered as the Secondary plans
are developed. Disciplines investigated in the SWS include:
groundwater resources including the quantity and quality of recharge and discharge,
surface water features including headwater drainage features, and
aquatic features for fish, macroinvertebrates
3.3.13 The SWS has also identified an area where more detailed analysis is needed prior to
establishing land uses. However, in the majority of the Secondary Plan Area, further
analysis will be limited to an Environmental Impact Study to be prepared at the time of
development to refine the limits of the identified natural heritage system and to be in
keeping with the findings of the SWS.
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3.3.14 The second phase of the SWS will include the preparation of a comprehensive
Subwatershed Management Plan. This Management Plan will provide direction
regarding stormwater management controls, low impact development measures and
groundwater recharge/infiltration parameters. It will also include natural resource
strategies which will protect, rehabilitate and enhance the environment within the study
area.
3.3.15 The draft Secondary Plan and Urban Design and Sustainability Guidelines (UDSG)
have included several policies that may emerge from the Phase 2 report. The Phase 2
report will be completed in Fall 2020 and its final recommendations can only be
incorporated into the Secondary Plan and UDSG prior to reporting back to Council with
a recommendation.
3.3.16 The Robinson Creek and Tooley Creek Subwatershed Study has and will continue to
inform the Southwest Courtice Secondary Plan and the Courtice Employment Lands
and Major Transit Station Area Secondary Plan as well.
3.3.17 Courtice Employment Lands and Major Transit Station Area (MTSA) Secondary Plan
3.3.18 This MTSA Secondary Plan is located adjoining to, and immediately south of, the
Southeast Courtice Secondary Plan study area. Two North/South collector roads are
proposed to connect just north of the proposed GO Station site. The Southeast Courtice
Secondary Plan and its integrated Environmental Assessment will take the lead in
establishing the alignment of these collector roads will establish land uses, policies,
mobility and connectivity options that respond and complement the planning for the
MTSA.
4. The Secondary Plan Planning Process – Four Phases
4.1 As provided for in the draft Terms of Reference (Staff report PSD-0011-18) and further
refined through the tender and award process (Staff report COD-013-18), AECOM, our
lead Consultant, has summarized the four phases to the preparation of the Southeast
Courtice Secondary Plan in the following graphic.
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Phase 1: Background and Analysis Report
o The initial phase involves a detailed technical analysis of the area including
servicing, infrastructure and initial public participation.
Phase 2: Urban Design and Sustainability Principles and Alternative Land Use Plans
o This phase presents alternative land use plans based on urban design and
sustainable principles and best practices along with the input from the public and
guided by the Steering Committee. A charrette process is used to refine the
Principles and Alternative Land Use Plans.
Phase 3: Preferred Land Use Plan for the Southeast Courtice Area
o Based on the preceding analysis and public engagement a Preferred Land Use Plan
was developed for the Secondary Plan area. Once the Land Use Plan has been
refined prior to the recommendation report, the remaining studies will be completed
in support of the recommended Land Use Plan.
Phase 4: Final Draft Secondary Plan and Adoption by Council (current Phase)
o The recommendation phase includes the preparation of drafts of the Secondary
Plan, the implementing zoning by-law and implementing urban design and
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sustainability guidelines. This phase requires the statutory meetings prior to Council
making a decision.
4.2 The following sections generally describe the process for developing the Southeast
Courtice Secondary Plan. A sequence of events summary table is also provided in
Attachment 1 for your reference.
Phase 1 – Technical Background
4.3 The initial phase involved a detailed technical analysis of the area including servicing,
infrastructure and initial public participation.
Public Information Centre – PIC #1
4.3.1. The first Public Information Centre (PIC) was held on June 27, 2018. The initial PIC
was to introduce the public to the project by defining the study area, the process, and
the study priorities. Over 800 people were invited to this PIC. This included
landowners, people who had expressed an interest in the project, Council members,
and steering committee members. This PIC was advertised in the Orono Times and the
Clarington this Week in the two weeks preceding, plus on the municipal website
4.3.2. The 60+ residents, business owners, agencies and developers attending the session
were interested in the design process to create the framework for future development of
this area. The Integrated Environmental Assessment process was introduced at the
project launch to inform the community it was being undertaken simultaneously with the
Secondary Plan.
Background Studies
4.3.3. Detailed background studies were also completed during Phase 1 of the study and they
included the following:
Planning Background Report
Affordable Housing Analysis
Commercial Needs Assessment
Transportation Report
Functional Servicing Report
Landscape Analysis
Agricultural Impact Assessment
Archeological Assessment
Built Heritage and Cultural Heritage Landscape Screening
Natural Resources Background Analysis
Sustainability & Green Principles Report
Robinson Creek and Tooley Creeks Subwatershed Study
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4.3.4. Some of these reports such as the Landscape Analysis, the Built Heritage and Cultural
Heritage Landscape Screen Report and the Agricultural Assessment Report
documented the existing conditions within the Secondary Plan area, whereas others,
such as the Sustainability & Green Principles Report focused on trends and best
practices that will influence the policies. These reports are available for review on the
Secondary Plan project webpage. For a summary of these reports please see
Attachment 2.
Phase 2 – Urban Design and Land Use Options
4.4 Phase 2 involved the development of three alternative land use concepts. The three
land use options were informed by international research, locally applicable best
practices and precedent examples for good neighbourhood design and community
development. This research included topics such as multi-modality, efficient and
compact urban form, affordable housing, environmental protection, sustainability and
climate change, placemaking through a local serving mixed use core, vibrant attractive
public realm and edge conditions for non compatible Land Use.
Subwatershed Study Technical Meeting
4.4.1. At the request of the Landowners Group, municipal staff and our SWS consultant
Aquafor Beech Limited held individual meetings with several landowners and their
consultants on June 19, 2019. The purpose of each meeting was for the technical
experts to discuss the findings in the Subwatershed Study Characterization report as
they related to specific properties. In most cases, the landowner’s consultants did not
disagree that features existed on the property. However, they wanted assurance that at
the time of development, through the appropriate studies, they could refine the limits of
the features. This approach is in keeping with Official Plan policy.
Three Land use Alternatives
4.4.2. All three options were based on the protection of environmental areas and to create
complete and healthy neighbourhoods with a focus on active transportation, mix of land
uses and diverse housing types and tenures within walking distance to shopping,
services, schools and amenities. However, each land use alternative explores a unique
competing development objective.
Land Use Option 1
4.4.3. This Option is a continuation of the existing suburban development style, predominantly
characterised by low density housing forms and a primary mixed-use node at Courtice
Road and Bloor Street. The scheme reflects a distribution of density across the
neighbourhood, with the majority of higher density blocks within the Regional Corridors.
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Land Use Option 2
4.4.4. Option 2 prioritises the environment. This option clustered development into character
districts, that draw their sense of place and identity from an adjacent watercourse, forest
blocks, a next-door pedestrian friendly mixed-use community zone or nearby naturalized
landscape amenity space. This option enhanced opportunities for interconnectivity (bike
paths, trails) and integrates parks & storm ponds to increase developable lands while
maximizing natural area retention.
Land Use Option 3
4.4.5. This land use scenario is focused around the creation of a strong sense of place and
community identity. The overall built form of this option recognised the prominent
intersections within the neighbourhood, situating higher densities at the intersection of
Bloor Street and Courtice Road. Development was distributed to provide local amenities
(parks, schools, commercial activities, etc.) within close proximity to the majority of
residents.
Landowner Meeting
4.4.6. In October 9, 2019, a meeting was held for all the landowners within the Secondary
Plan area. This gave these stakeholders the opportunity to view and provide feedback
on the three alternative land use concepts developed for Southeast Courtice prior to the
general public. Of the 60+ landowners invited to this meeting, approximately 30
attended the meeting.
Public Information Centre #2
4.4.7. The same three land use options were presented to the general public at the project’s
second PIC on November 5, 2019. Notice of the PIC was given in the same manner as
the first PIC. Approximately 90 people attended this event.
4.4.8. The presentation included an overview of existing policy direction, best practices in
relevant Neighbourhood Design, and further described each of the three alternative land
use approaches. Some common themes we heard at this PIC:
improve walkable connections through these new neighbourhoods,
protect the natural environment,
locate higher density/taller buildings along Bloor Street, Trulls Road and Highway 2,
provide a mixture of housing types, and
design the neighbourhood streets to accommodate local transit.
4.4.9. Following the second PIC, the Municipality launched an online mapping survey to
generate additional feedback. Unfortunately, although the engagement tools were
available for almost a month only a handful of people participated.
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Phase 3 - Preferred Land Use and Draft Secondary Plan
4.5 Phase 3 of the Secondary Plan was to introduce the Preferred Land Use plan and a
general policy and design directions to the public and agencies for their feedback. In
keeping with the Council approved workplan, the plan was to present preferred a Land
Use Plan to the public for their input, PIC #3 scheduled for March/April 2020 was
cancelled as a result of COVID-10 pandemic.
4.6 Also key to Phase 3 was the update of the supporting technical documents including the
Functional Servicing Report, the Transportation Report and the completion of Phase 2
of the Subwatershed Study.
Phase 4 – Final Secondary Plan
4.7 The intent of Phase 4 of the Secondary Plan process is to focus on the finalization of the
Secondary Plan. This includes the Statutory Public Meeting and Recommendation
Report to Council for Adoption together with the final documents. In this phase the
Notice of Completion and the Documentation package for the Integrated E nvironmental
Assessment process would be finalized.
4.8 The Statutory Public Meeting provides the opportunity for the public to formally
comment on the draft Official Plan Amendment, the draft Secondary Plan (including
Land Use Plan) and the Urban Design and Sustainability Guidelines. It is important to
note, that any comments received, either during the Public Meeting verbally, or
submitted in writing to staff, since the release of the draft Official Plan Amendment and
Secondary Plan, will be recorded in the Recommendation Report.
4.9 The COVID-19 pandemic was declared in March 2020 as the project was nearing the
end of Phase 3. Although staff and the co nsultants were no longer working from their
respective offices, the Secondary Plan project continued. Virtual steering committee
meetings, agency communication and replying to landowner and public questions has
continued.
Notice - Statutory Public Meeting
4.9.1. Notice for the Statutory Public Meeting for the Southeast Courtice Secondary Plan was
provided in accordance with the Planning Act. The Public Meeting Notice were provided
to over 800 landowners, property owners in and within 120 of the Secondary Plan area.
The Notice of Public Meeting was also sent by mail to the Region of Durham, the
Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing and all other commenting agencies. All draft
and supporting documents were posted to the project webpage by June 1, 2020.
4.9.2. Communications has promoted the Public Meeting and posted the Notice on the
Municipal Website, Facebook and Twitter. Notices advertising the Public Meeting were
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placed in Clarington This Week and the Orono Times for three weeks preceding this
meeting.
4.9.3. The Notice of Statutory Public Meeting noted that the materials (draft Official Plan
Amendment and draft Secondary Plan) would be available for review June 1, 2020.
4.9.4. All registered interested parties since the start of the project were mailed (May 29, 2020)
or emailed (June 2) the Notice of Public meeting
4.9.5. In addition to receiving a Notice of Public Meeting, external agencies and internal
departments have been requested to provide their comments regarding the Draft
Secondary Plan and the Draft Urban Design and Sustainability Guidelines. These
comments, as well as the publics will be addressed when staff are preparing a
Recommendation Report.
5. The Draft Official Plan Amendment, Secondary Plan and the
Urban Design and Sustainability Guidelines
Draft Official Plan Amendment
5.1 The purpose of this Amendment is to add the Southeast Courtice Secondary Plan to the
Clarington Official Plan. This Secondary Plan, including Urban Design and Sustainability
Guidelines will facilitate the development of a sustainable, livable and inclusive
community in Courtice. See Attachment 3.
Draft Secondary Plan
5.2 The Southeast Courtice Secondary Plan will serve as the foundation for the creation of
a new community with its own character and sense of identity while also creating a
place that fits into the larger Courtice and Clarington community. The Draft Secondary
Plan is planned for approximately 11,800 residents and 4,900 residential units. It has
included three public elementary schools supported by an integrated and connected
Parks system and public realm network that also includes civic/institutional uses,
streets, mid-block connections and trails.
5.3 The policy framework establishes a general urban structure that relates to densities and
uses. The major land use categories to support this structure are Regional corridor,
Prominent Intersections, Residential and Environmental Protection Areas.
5.4 Bloor Street, Courtice Road and Highway 2 are Regional Corridors. These are priority
Intensification Areas and the routes for continued transit service. Regional Corridors
shall be the location of the highest densities, tallest buildings and greatest mixing of
uses, in order to concentrate population in areas with good access to transit and
amenities. Both medium density residential and high density/mixed use designations are
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located along portions of the Regional Corridors. Commercial Uses are encouraged to
located on the Regional Corridors.
5.5 Within Regional Corridors, the greatest heights and densities shall occur at Prominent
Intersections (Bloor Street and Trulls Road, Bloor Street and Courtice Road, and
Highway 2 and Courtice Road) These areas shall have the greatest concentration of
commercial retail and service uses.
5.6 The remainder of the Secondary Plan is predominantly residential areas. The
residential areas have a built form of lower density and ground-related units. Urban
Residential areas will be the location of many of Southeast Courtice’s larger parks and
schools. These amenities will be integrated into areas away from the intensity of the
Regional Corridors.
-
Figure 2: Southeast Courtice Draft Secondary Plan Land Use Map
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5.7 Generally, each land use designation described above includes specific policies about
building types that are permitted, any additional land uses include specific directions for
minimum heights and densities. Direction is provided regarding Schools and Parks. The
Secondary Plan includes an extensive set of Urban Design Policies.
5.8 Environmental Protection Areas are the primary structuring component of the parks and
open space system. They include natural heritage features, hydrologically sen sitive
features and lands within the regulatory flood plain of the Tooley and Robinson
Creeks. Parks are vital public spaces connecting the broader public realm network.
Quantity and quality park space will be provided to meet the needs of residents and
enable a variety of opportunities for passive and active recreation. By locating Parks
adjacent to Environmental Protection Areas, the Secondary Plan seeks to foster a
connection to natural areas, contribute to the identity of Southeast Courtice as a
community close to nature, create a visual connection to the larger open space system
and link into a system of trails.
5.9 The Official Plan sets out clear intentions and expectations to promote great streets and
public spaces, high quality architecture, and sustainable development. The Urban
Design Policies in the Secondary Plan are tailored to ensure that development shall
contribute to the creation of a high quality public realm which is safe, comfortable,
visually-pleasing and animated, supports active transportation and community life, and
contributes to the distinct character of Southeast Courtice.
Urban Design and Sustainability Guidelines (UDSG)
5.10 The UDSG provide direction and measurable targets for building and site design to
support the Secondary Plan policy framework. Generally, for each topic, a guiding
principle is presented, and several guidelines are provided to assist with achieving the
principle. For Example:
Principle: The active transportation network is the foundation to creating a
community that provides dedicated infrastructure to support the use of active modes
for all types of users.
Guideline: Provide mid-block connections every 75-100m in particular through the
high and medium density blocks of the Regional Corridor to support increased
network connectivity, provide relief to continuous facades, establish secondary view
corridors connecting prominent arterial or collector roads.
5.11 While the UDSG and the standards are intended as a reference, they indicate the
Municipality of Clarington’s expectations with respect to the character, quality and form
of development in the Secondary Plan area. The guidelines al so provide the
Municipality with an objective, consistent evaluation framework to assess future
development applications.
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6. Conformity with Provincial Plans
Provincial Policy Statement
6.1 The Provincial Policy Statement 2020 (PPS) provides policy direction on land use
planning and development for matters of provincial interest. This includes the protection
of Provincial resources, public health and safety, and the quality of the natural and built
environment. These objectives are to be achieved through efficien t land use planning.
Through land use designations and policies, municipal official plans and secondary
plans are the most important vehicle for implementing the PPS.
6.2 The Provincial Policy Statement focuses growth and development within urban and rural
settlement areas. Development within these areas must meet the full range of current
and future needs of its population by employing efficient development patterns and
avoiding significant or sensitive resources and areas which may pose a risk to public
health and safety. Land use patterns should promote a mix of housing, including
affordable housing, employment, recreation, parks and open spaces, and transportation
choices that increase the use of active transportation and transit before other modes of
travel.
6.3 The Southeast Courtice Secondary Plan will lead to a new neighbourhood that includes
a mix of housing and other uses. In keeping with PPS, this Plan has directed the
highest densities to our Regional Corridors and has designed around the existing
natural and cultural heritage resources in the area. As a result, the Southeast Courtice
Secondary Plan will conform with the PPS.
Growth Plan
6.4 The Growth Plan for the Greater Golden Horseshoe 2019 (Growth Plan) provides
guidance on where and how to grow within the Greater Golden Horseshoe (GGH). This
includes requiring Municipalities to maintain a three -year supply of serviced land for
residential development.
6.5 Building on the direction of the PPS, the Growth Plan supports the achievement of
complete communities, a thriving economy, a clean and healthy environment, and social
equity. These goals will be achieved by promoting access to transit and active
transportation and increasing the amount and variety of housing that is provided.
6.6 Complete communities provide for the needs of all parts of society. This includes
providing retail and office uses to locations that support active transportation and have
existing or planned transit. To address the issue of housing affordability the Growth
Plan provides direction for a range and mix of housing to be offered with a priority on
access to transit and amenities.
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6.7 In order to promote intensification, the Growth Plan has mapped a Built Boundary that
identifies the limits of existing development. Lands outside of the Built Boundary are
designated as Greenfield Areas. The Growth Plan calls for new developments in
Greenfield Areas to achieve a minimum density target of 50 residents and jobs
combined per gross hectare. The Southeast Courtice Secondary Plan includes lands
within the Built Boundary as well as lands that are designated Greenfield Areas.
6.8 In the Secondary Plan area a significant portion of the lands within the Built Boundary
are located along the Regional Corridors. The increased densities in this area will
contribute significantly to Clarington’s intensification targets.
6.9 The Growth Plan promotes integrated planning between land use and necessary
infrastructure, such as stormwater. The Southeast Courtice Secondary Plan is informed
by the Robinson / Tooley Subwatershed Plan which evaluates the current and future
drainage needs in the plan area. The coordination of these two proj ects will also ensure
the development in the area is appropriately responsive to the natural environment.
7. Official Plans
Durham Regional Official Plan
7.1 The Durham Region Official Plan designates the lands as Living Areas and Regional
Corridors along Highway 2, Courtice Road and Bloor Street.
7.2 Lands designated Living Area permit the development of communities incorporating the
widest possible variety of housing types, sizes and tenure to provide living
accommodations and address various socio-economic factors. Development
applications in Living Areas must consider having a compact built form, including
providing intensive residential and mixed uses along arterial road and transit routes.
Consideration must also be given to urban design, pedestrian connections, grid pattern
of roads, and the availability of services and infrastructure.
7.3 Region of Durham Official Plan policy, and as the local Affordable Housing Authority,
supports the provision of Affordable housing units throughout Clarington. Policy
recommends that higher quality housing be provided however not at the expense of the
existing affordable housing stock. The Region of Durham Official Plan also supports the
provision of a range of residential unit types in order to support families, seniors and
special needs groups.
7.4 The Region’s Official Plan establishes a framework for Regional Corridors. Corridors are
considered the main arteries of the Region’s urban structure. Corridors will be
developed to include, among other things, the promotion of pedestrian activity and
public transit ridership through well designed development, a mix of uses at higher
densities, and sensitive urban design that orients development to the corridor,
complemented by the consolidation of access points and preserving and enhancing
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cultural heritage resources. The built form should be a wide variety of building forms,
generally mid-rise in height, with some higher buildings.
7.5 In keeping with the Region of Durham Official Plan higher densities have be directed to
the Regional Corridors where higher order transit will be located. In addition, policies
have been included to support the Region and Clarington Council’s desire to provide
affordable housing units within this Secondary Plan area and throughout Clarington.
Clarington Official Plan
7.6 The Clarington Official seeks to create walkable neighbourhoods and to provide a
variety of uses within each neighbourhood. New neighbourhoods will have a variety of
housing densities, tenure and types for all incomes, ages and lifestyles. Three key
principles which provide direction for the policies of the Official Plan are: sustainable
development, healthy communities and growth management.
7.7 Clarington Official Plan designates the lands as Urban Residential, Regional Corridor
and Environmental Protection.
7.8 The Urban Residential designation shall predominantly be used for housing purposes,
providing for a variety of densities, tenure and types. Neighbourhoods are to be
walkable, compact, connected and create a high quality public realm.
7.9 The Southeast Courtice Secondary Plan study area includes three Regional Corridors:
Durham Highway 2, Bloor Street, and Courtice Road. Regional Corridors shall provide
for intensification, mixed-use development and pedestrian and transit supportive
development. The development of Corridors aims to improve the public realm and
establish walkable, transit supportive Corridors through high quality streetscaping and
built form.
7.10 The lands associated with the headwaters and tributaries of Tooley Creek and Robinson
Creek are designated Environmental Protection. Environmental Protection Areas are
recognized as the most significant components of the Municipality’s natural environment
and their ecological functions are to be conserved and protected. The policy framework
in the Secondary Plan is aligned with Official Plan policies and will be updated in
accordance with the recommendations from the Subwatershed Management Plan
currently being prepared.
Priority Green
7.11 The Priority Green Framework promotes sustainability and energy efficiency in the
design of buildings, infrastructure and neighbourhoods. This Secondary Plan supports a
mix of housing types and densities with the highest densities directed to the Regional
Corridors. Policies also support an interconnected, walkable street network and the
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majority of residents will be located within walking distance of a park and an elementary
school.
7.12 The alignments of new higher order roads will support an interconnected and walkable
street network and policies encourage shorter block lengths and additional pedestrian
linkages where needed to create direct and continuous pedestrian routes throughout the
neighbourhood.
7.13 Parks, stormwater management facilities, and development adjacent to natural heritage
features will use low impact development strategies(LIDs), naturalized landscaping and
vegetation to maintain or enhance the nearby natural features. Policies encourage
stormwater run-off mitigation through landscaping strategies and the use of LIDs,
including permeable surfaces.
7.14 The Secondary Plan and Urban Design and Sustainability Guidelines will guide
development to meet the standards outlined in the Priority Green framework. This will
include energy efficiency and sustainability in building design and construction and
consideration for renewable/alternative energy systems, such as solar panels. Policies
support landscape design throughout to maximize infiltration, maintain topography,
feature hardy, native plantings and trees that provide shade.
8. Public Comments
8.1 Preparation of the Southeast Courtice Secondary Plan has been guided by feedback
from stakeholders and the public. Prior to the release of the draft Southeast Courtice
Secondary Plan, the following are the key themes of comments received:
The importance of
o the preservation of green space and wildlife connectivity;
o trail connectivity, i.e., new trails linked to existing trails;
o road upgrades to respond to future rapid growth;
o planning for major environmental events
o incorporating mixed-use development and retirement living;
Traffic on Bloor Street and Courtice Road should be reduced;
Green infrastructure should be incorporated into Neighbourhood design and policy;
The need to recognize best locations for mixed uses, commercial uses and school
facilities;
Active transportation infrastructure, i.e., paved and signalized bike lanes should be
included; and
The need for transparency about future development plans when future residents
purchase properties (low density area versus high density area).
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8.2 At the time of writing this report staff have received several inquiries regarding the
Public Meeting Notice and the Draft Southeast Courtice Secondary Plan.
One interested party emailed staff to say thank you for the Notice of Public Meeting;
One interested party telephoned staff to say how pleased he was with the
Secondary Plan and that this will benefit landowners in the area;
Two landowners telephoned seeking clarification as to the approximate location of
the East-West collector south of Bloor Street;
One landowner inquired about the impacts the Secondary Plan will have on the
existing road network;
One landowner submitted an alternate lotting pattern and park block for his
development parcel; and
One agent inquired about infrastructure, land use designations and developability of
two parcels of land.
8.3 The comments received leading up to and following the public meeting will continue to
be documented and analyzed as Staff prepare the recommendation report.
9. Agency and Departmental Comments
9.1 As noted previously, Region of Durham Planning and Public Works staff as well as
Central Lake Ontario Conservation Authority (CLOCA), Planning and Engineering staff
are members of the Steering Committee. As committee members and agency
representatives, both agencies have reviewed background reports, draft land use
options, as well as a number of iterations of the preferred land use plan. We anticipate
receiving formal comments from the agencies as we work towards the recommendation
report.
Central Lake Ontario Conservation Authority
9.2 CLOCA comments have consistently been supportive of the Secondary Plan process
and they have provided comments on the Background Studies, land use options and
most recently an early draft of the Secondary Plan and Urban Design Guidelines. As
normal, CLOCA comments are with respect to the protection of the natural heritage
system, flood plain, stormwater management and groundwater protection. Comments
received from CLOCA on an early draft of the Secondary Plan and UDSG included:
Support for Environmental protection and the functioning of these areas as a
background to the community however seeking clarity that development would not
be permitted in these areas;
Noted that further study will be needed to minimize impacts from new Road and
infrastructure construction;
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Support for the incorporation of Low Impact Development and Green Development
measures within the Road network as well as other parts of the Secondary Plan;
Supportive of the trail network however not within EP are a;
Seeking clarifications on several policies; and
Recommended a few policy additions.
Regional Municipality of Durham – Planning and Economic Development and Public
Works
9.3 Durham Region Planning and Economic Development and Public Works Departments
have also been supportive members of the Steering Committee and have provided
comments from their respective departments as needed throughout the process. When
providing comments to this point have generally included:
Important to recognize that Regional Corridors are intended to convey large
volumes of traffic, to support transit, and to support a mix of uses. Collectively the
policies and design should support a complete community;
Cautious support and sometimes questions regarding the various road,
intersections and right of way designs. Always to ensure that the Region and
Clarington’s design parameters are followed;
Seeking clarity regarding references to Durham Transit operations with the intent to
ensure that Durham Transit is involved in the Secondary Plan process; and
Clarity regarding how servicing and infrastructure will proceed in keeping with the
Region’s programs.
Municipality of Clarington – Engineering Services Department
9.4 Clarington’s Engineering Department is also represented on the steering Committee
and has provided support to the preparation of the Secondary Plan throughout the
process. Prior to this phase of the Secondary Plan process, Engineering has provided
comments regarding:
Parkland size, shape and distribution throughout the area;
The need to reference Clarington’s Road Design Standards;
Concern that too many Stormwater Management facilities have been proposed prior
to the completion of the Subwatershed study; and
That consideration should be given directing trail crossings to align with at
intersections.
10. Concurrence
Not Applicable.
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11. Conclusion
Clarington Next Steps
11.1 The purpose of this report is to provide background information and a status update for
the Public Meeting on the draft Secondary Plan. Staff will continue to process and
prepare a subsequent recommendation report.
11.2 After extensive consultation with agencies, stakeholders and the public, the draft
Southeast Courtice Secondary Plan has been prepared and released for agency and
public review. Following the Statutory Public Meeting, the draft documents will be
further revised based on the comments received.
11.3 A subsequent phase of this process will involve the preparation of the implementing
zoning regulations. A recommended version of the Secondary Plan and Urban Design
and Sustainability Guidelines along with Zoning regulations will be presented to Council
in the future.
11.4 A third PIC planned for March/April 2020 was cancelled as a result of the COVID-19
pandemic. We have proceeded directly to the statutory Public Meeting, there is
potential for a third Public Information Centre in the Fall should Council consider it
necessary based on the input received at th is statutory public meeting.
11.5 When adopted, the Official Plan Amendment will be forwarded to the Region of Durham
for approval. Part of the Region of Durham review includes circulation of the
Amendment to agencies and the Province for their comments. The Region will issue a
Notice of Decision regarding the Amendment and the 20-day appeal period will
commence. If there are no appeals to the Region about the approved OPA it will come
into full force and effect.
Staff Contact: Lisa Backus, Principal Planner, 905-623-3379 ext. 2413 or
lbackus@clarington.net, Carlos Salazar, Manager, csalazar@clarington.net
Attachments:
Attachment 1 – Southeast Courtice Secondary Plan Sequence of Events
Attachment 2 – Summary of Technical Reports
Attachment 3 - Draft Official Plan Amendment, Secondary Plan and Urban Design and
Sustainability Guidelines.
Interested Parties:
List of Interested Parties available from Planning Services Department.
Attachment 1 to Report PSD-021-20
Sequence of Events Summary - Southeast Courtice
Secondary Plan
2018 Event
January 29, 2018 Public Meeting Report and Staff Presentation
Council authorization to initiate
May, 2018 Award the contract to AECOM
June 13, 2018 Municipal Class Environmental Assessment
Notice of Study Commencement
June 26, 2018 Public Information Centre #1
September 5, 2018 Steering Committee Meeting #1
November 28, 2018 Steering Committee Meeting #2
December 13, 2018 Steering Committee Workshop #1
2019 Event
April 23, 2019 School Board Meeting
May 10, 2019 Courtice Planning Day, Steering Committee Meeting #3
June 19, 2019 Subwatershed Study Experts Meeting
September 3, 2019 Steering Committee Workshop #2
Alternative Land Uses
October 9, 2019 Landowner Meeting
Alternative Land Uses
November 5, 2019 Public Information Centre #2
Alternative Land Uses
November 2019 Online Interactive Mapping Project
2020 Event
March 2020 COVID-19 Pandemic
March/April 2020 Cancelled - Public Information Centre #3
May 12, 2020 Steering Committee Workshop #3
Draft Secondary Plan and UDSG
May 29 - June 2,
2020
Notice of Statutory Public Meeting
Draft OPA, Secondary Plan and UDSG
June 1, 2020 Material Available for review
Draft OPA, Secondary Plan and UDSG
June 2, 2020 Request for Comments sent to Commenting Agencies
June 23, 2020 Statutory Public Meeting
Draft OPA, Secondary Plan and UDSG
Fall 2020 Recommendation Report
Attachment 1 to Report PSD-021-20
Recommended OPA, Secondary Plan and UDSG
Fall 2020 Zoning By-law - draft
Attachment 2 to Report PSD-021-20
Summary of Background Studies
Report Key Findings
Affordable Housing
Analysis
The Southeast Courtice Secondary Plan Area is expected
to accommodate a large share of the projected housing
demand in Courtice. Within this number a higher share of
denser housing forms than previously forecast is
anticipated.
The Southeast Courtice Secondary Plan should target a
minimum of 72% ground-oriented (single-family,
townhomes and duplexes), and 28% apartment style units
to expected future demand.
Commercial Needs
Assessment
Significant population growth in the Southeast Courtice
Secondary Plan Area and surrounding areas due to new
development will drive demand for new retail services in
the local area.
Policy within the Clarington Official Plan encourages new
retail development within Southeast Courtice in a variety of
forms to provide for retail commercial services in close
proximity of new residents.
Current retail development at Courtice Main Street, as well
as SmartCentres Bowmanville and central Oshawa are
located in close proximity to Southeast Courtice and can
be expected to meet a significant share of future demand
for retail services. Additional retail floor space planned for
the corner of Highway 2 and Trulls Road can be expected
to provide the majority of new floor space to service
demand generated by future population growth.
Given competing and future planned supply, retail uses
within the Southeast Courtice Secondary Plan area will be
modest and focus largely on servicing the day-to-day
convenience needs of residents. Projections indicate
demand for between 10,600 and 13,300 square metres of
retail space at build-out of the Secondary Plan.
Transportation Report
Road Network: A combination of corridor improvements,
road extensions and new roads are planned to support the
development of the Southeast Courtice Secondary Plan
and area. Road improvements will be required for Trulls
Road, Courtice Road, Hancock Road, and Bloor Street, as
well as the creation of a new collector road network
extending from existing adjacent developed areas to create
longer collector roads that integrate and connect
communities, respect the topography of the SECSP area,
and capitalize on view and window corridors adjacent to
natural heritage lands, where appropriate.
Transit Network: The future Courtice GO Station, Highway
2 Durham Rapid Transit, and enhanced local Durham
Region Transit (DRT) service are planned to increase
general public transit connectivity and service for the area
and surrounding community. As the Southeast Courtice
Secondary Plan area develops, transit service should be
provided along arterial and major collector roads to provide
100% transit coverage with most residences/jobs within a
250 m walking distance and no further than a 400 m
walking distance, and also with reasonable service
headways.
Active Transportation: Regional and municipal cycling
facilities and active transportation additions are planned
throughout the study area as both primary, short term and
long-term improvements as an important aspect of the
overall transportation network. Similar to transit-based
solutions, active transportation will not solely address the
future mobility and access needs for the Southeast
Courtice Secondary Plan development area; however, it is
an important transportation service to provide mode
choice, and is also a sustainable transportation solution to
achieve reduced environmental impacts in the area.
Develop a transportation network for the SECSP area to
provide for a robust, connected and flexible network that
serves the mobility and accessibility of all road users
(motorists, transit, cyclists, and pedestrians).
The planning for the SECSP area should also
acknowledge and consider a variety of area constraints
that impact the planning of the area transportation network,
such as watercourses, wetlands, woodlots, areas of
significant natural interest, and cultural and built heritage
resources. It is recommended to avoid or minimize
crossings of watercourses, avoid or minimize intrusion into
natural heritage lands (such as wetlands, woodlots, and
areas of significant natural interest), and avoid cultural and
built heritage resources, where possible.
Functional Servicing
Report
The future extension of watermains needed to service the
Southeast Courtice Study Area will be implemented by
means of future approved development applications.
The study area is not currently serviced by any existing
sanitary sewers. All new development will need to design
and construct local sanitary sewer systems that connect to
the future trunk / sub-trunk sanitary sewers being planned /
designed/ constructed by the Region and more specifically
as identified in the Region’s 2018 Development Charge
Study.
The future extension of planned watermain and sanitary
sewer infrastructure will need to be located in either
municipal / regional road allowances or servicing
easements, no such infrastructure shall be located on
private or municipal laneways.
Sustainability and
Green Principles Report
To analyze competing priorities inherent in sustainable
development and optimize the layout of land uses, Key
Performance Indicators (KPIs) will be utilized to establish
minimum development requirements.
Based on a prioritization of applicable policy objectives and
the development potential recognized through the
supporting Secondary Plan background studies and
concurrent related studies, the following performance
areas and KPIs are identified and will be used to assess
the success of the preferred plan.
KPIs that will be utilized to assess the concept and final
land use alternatives to optimize:
The built environment including residential density,
built form and mix, land use distribution, access to
amenities and shared facilities;
Mobility including average block length, intersection
density, pedestrian / bike score and transit
coverage;
The natural environment and open space including
post development tree cover percentage, % of
ecologically sensitive areas protected, Parkland
dedication, provisions for Urban agriculture (food
production); and
Infrastructure and buildings including the number of
water crossings.
Wastewater produced, energy use and water use per 1000
sq. m per GFA and CO2 reduction through solar panels are
possible KPIs that may be carried through by secondary
plan policy to the relevant stage of assessment /
implementation.
Agricultural Impact
Assessment
The development of the Southeast Courtice Secondary
Plan area is not expected to be a great source in traffic
related impacts to agriculture as the transportation routes
in the area are already well traveled by non-farm vehicles.
Avoidance Measures to address potential edge, traffic and
surface water quality and quantity impacts should consider
the design of internal road systems to direct urban traffic to
alternate roads, thereby avoiding roads that are used by
farm vehicles/equipment; maintain or enhance the
agricultural drainage (streams, creeks, rivers); avoid water
erosion through effective stormwater management.
Mitigation measures to minimize conflicts and preserve
agricultural functioning should consider:
the use of natural heritage features or a road, a wall
or berm or adequate fencing to separate agriculture
from non-agricultural land uses creating a defined
boundary;
use plantings/vegetation as buffer areas to minimize
impermeable surfaces, maximize vegetated areas to
maintain/ enhance groundwater/ surface water
supplies used by adjacent agricultural operations or
to reduce visual impacts/sounds;
use reduced speed limits on roads that abut
agricultural areas and implementation of surface
and/or groundwater monitoring in areas where
adjacent agricultural operations make use of surface
the water as part of their normal farm practices.
Built Heritage and
Cultural Heritage
Landscape Screening
The Built Heritage and Cultural Heritage Landscape
Screening was completed to identify known and potential
cultural heritage resources within the Study Area.
The screening allows the Municipality of Clarington to
quickly and efficiently identify properties with recognized or
potential cultural heritage value or interest. This information
is necessary to inform future planning decisions regarding
the Secondary Plan Area.
In total, three Cultural Heritage Landscapes and seven
Built Heritage Resources were identified as part of the
screening for the Secondary Plan Area.
It is recommended that the cultural heritage value or
interest of the seven built heritage resources and three
cultural heritage landscapes will be assessed in a
subsequent Cultural Heritage Evaluation Report (CHER).
Archaeological
Assessment
The results of the Stage 1 assessment indicate the majority
of the study area contains archaeological potential and will
require a Stage 2 Archaeological Assessment in the form
of test pit survey and a pedestrian survey prior to any land
alteration.
As further archaeological assessment is required,
archaeological concerns for Southeast Courtice Secondary
Plan area in Clarington, Ontario have not been fully
addressed.
Archaeological sites recommended for further
archaeological field work or protection remain subject to
Section 48 (1) of the Ontario Heritage Act and may not be
altered, or have artifacts removed from them, except by a
person holding an archaeological license.
Natural Resources
Background Analysis
This report provides a summary of the findings,
recommendations and conclusions of the study area
existing conditions as characterized by the Robinson
Tooley Subwatershed Study (SWS).
The significance and sensitivity of natural environment
features that pertain specifically to the study area are
further evaluated through this report to determine
opportunities and constraints for planning. The integrated
approach includes reviews, provides comment on, and
advice on implications of the existing conditions for the
development of the Southeast Courtice Secondary Plan
(SECSP) study area.
The SWS recognises land use constraints affecting
development in the following areas:
Natural Heritage Systems (NHS)
Flood Hazard
Erosion Hazard.
Headwater Drainage
Top of Bank/Valleylands
Hydrogeologic (water balance)
Consideration should be made when developing the
Transportation network for new development including
Two of the future Collector Roads will traverse high
constraint areas
There are features outside of the study area that
ought to be considered
Meadowglade Road – the extension of this Road
conflicts with the SWS however they are likely
unavoidable.
Landscape Analysis
With no significant landform or slope concerns, the study
area can support the higher intensity development targets
as directed by existing policy.
The study recommends to avoid significant changes to
landform and maintain the natural drainage pattern to
minimize the risk of flooding.
Significant views into the natural Heritage areas and
existing prominent cultural amenity should be protected
and enhanced.
Encourage habitat connectivity and maintain the function of
existing linkages where possible.
Robinson Creek and
Tooley Creek
Subwatershed Study
The work completed as part of the Stage 1
Characterization has provided a comprehensive account of
the background research and subsequent field
investigations, technical assessments that were
undertaken to characterize the location, extent, magnitude,
cause, status, significance, sensitivity, and
interrelationships between the environmental resources
within the study area. The Key deliverable in this phase
was a summary of the environmental constraints, issues
and opportunities within the study area such that
development/land use planning can begin, and appropriate
management practices can be developed to protect the
area’s natural features and functions. Constraints have
been classified into four main categories:
• High constraint areas – flood/erosion hazard lands,
groundwater recharge/aquifer protection, core terrestrial
features and linkages to be preserved, significant habitat,
etc.
• Medium constraint areas – moderately significant features
and habitat, vegetation protection zones, features which
may be integrated into future development if feasible, or
features which may be relocated/replaced subject to
appropriate mitigation.
• Low constraint areas – isolated features with limited or no
habitat of significance that can be subject to mitigation.
• Prioritized opportunities for restoration and enhancement.
The constraints map is accompanied by a reference table
which outlines the rationale behind areas identified as
constraints to development (i.e.areas to be preserved,
areas subject to mitigation, restoration and enhancement
areas). SWS disciplines relevant to Stage 1 are listed
below:
Natural heritage
Natural Hazards
Hydrogeology
Fluvial Geomorphology
Hydrology and Hydraulics
The SWS has also identified a Special Study Area, where
more detailed analysis is needed prior to establishing land
uses given the complex nature of the features identified in
the area.
The Stage 2 Report will provide a summary of all the
elements of the recommended Strategy, together with
updated environmental targets/criteria for each.
Summary maps will be developed to illustrate the locations
and inter-relationships for these measures. For the study
area, the measures which comprise the Subwatershed
Strategies will be clearly documented in summary tables
and on GIS mapping that includes:
• General land uses and preliminary road layout per
Municipal plans;
• Natural Heritage System boundaries and corresponding
limits of development;
• Groundwater recharge protection areas;
• Sensitive stream reaches and HDFs;
• location of SWM facilities and drainage catchment
boundaries; and
• location of proposed improvement/enhancement works
such as channel restoration, capacity improvements, or
culvert replacements.
Key deliverables in Stage 2 will include updated hydrologic
and floodplain models; updated goals, objectives and
targets; the final constraints mapping; adaptive monitoring,
mitigation, and management strategies; and an
implementation framework.
Stage 2 of the study will address the sensitivity,
constraints, and opportunities for all of the environmental
resources identified through the Stage 1 of the study;
ensuring that the form and function of valued ecosystem
components are not compromised under a post
development scenario.
1
Southeast Courtice Secondary Plan
1 Introduction
Southeast Courtice represents a major expansion of the Courtice community.
The Southeast Courtice Secondary Plan area is approximately 295 hectares in size. It is
comprised of portions of the Emily Stowe, Avondale and Ebenezer neighbourhoods as
identified in Appendix B of the Clarington Official Plan. It is generally bounded to the
north by Durham Highway 2 and Hancock Road to the east, while the southern
boundary is south of Bloor Street and the western boundary is located east of
Prestonvale Road near Robinson Creek.
Prominent features include the presence of a number of regional roads which bisect and
border the area and significant natural heritage and hydrological features, including the
headwaters and tributaries of Tooley Creek and Robinson Creek.
The Secondary Plan area is anticipated to undergo significant growth and development,
with a planned population of approximately 11,800 residents and 4,900 units. The
purpose of the Secondary Plan is to establish goals and policies to guide development
within Southeast Courtice, as it is implemented through subdivision, zoning and site
plan control. Several key themes run throughout this Secondary Plan:
Sustainability – Southeast Courtice will be developed to minimize the community’s
impact on the environment and to protect and celebrate nature. The Secondary Plan
supports sustainability by:
Setting a high standard of environmental performance for buildings, infrastructure
and other parts of the built environment;
Mitigating the community’s contribution to climate change while also assuring its
resilience through adaptation measures;
Supporting lifestyles that result in lower resource consumption and produce less
waste and pollution.
Creating a community where people can move around by walking, cycling and
transit rather than private automobile; and
Developing in a manner that is compatible with the surrounding natural
environment.
Liveability – Southeast Courtice will offer an excellent quality of life for residents and
workers. The Secondary Plan supports liveability by:
Providing the public and private amenities needed in day-to-day life;
Southeast Courtice Secondary Plan - Draft
2
Creating a pleasant place to be through the design of the built environment and
access to nature;
Fostering a sense of identity and belonging; and
Supporting and enabling healthy active lifestyles.
Inclusivity – Southeast Courtice will be a community that everyone can call home,
regardless of age, ability or income. Inclusivity is promoted by:
Providing a range of housing choices for a diversity of income levels and
household sizes, including affordable housing.
Creating a community that is fit for all stages of life and people of varying ability.
Reflecting and celebrating the cultural heritage of the area, past and present.
The Urban Design and Sustainable Development Guidelines included as an appendix
provide further guidance on the implementation of the policies of this Secondary Plan.
2 Vision and Objectives
2.1 Vision
Southeast Courtice will be a sustainable, livable and inclusive community. It will have its
own identity, while contributing to the larger Courtice and Clarington communities.
Although predominantly residential, it will feature a mix, location and intensity of uses
that allow many needs to be met locally, while also having access to broader amenities
in the surrounding areas. Walking, cycling and transit will be attractive and viable
alternatives to the car.
A key part of Southeast Courtice’s identity will be the presence of nature. The natural
heritage system, including features related to the Robinson and Tooley Creeks, will be
preserved, enhanced, and sensitively incorporated into a parks and open space system.
Trees and landscaped spaces will extend greenery throughout the area.
The area’s major roads will also serve as defining features for Southeast Courtice.
While providing important transportation routes, they will feature landscaping, built form,
mix of uses and connections to the interior of the neighbourhood that make them
attractive and inviting public places. They will serve as community focal points which
join Southeast Courtice together.
In this manner, Southeast Courtice will combine diverse uses, intensities and places
into an integrated and connected whole.
Southeast Courtice Secondary Plan - Draft
3
2.2 Objectives
The goals of sustainability, liveability and inclusivity link all parts of the Secondary Plan
and are pursued in tandem to create a well-balanced community that meets the needs
of its residents and workers while respecting fundamental environmental constraints. To
realize these goals, development within the Southeast Courtice Secondary Plan Area
shall achieve the following objectives:
2.2.1 Foster a sustainable low-carbon community, resilient to the potential impacts
of climate change.
2.2.2 Create an efficient land use pattern and urban form which is supportive of
transit provision, enables residents to meet many of their needs locally within
walking distance, and provides good transitions between uses and areas of
development intensity.
2.2.3 Foster a multi-modal community where walking, cycling and transit are viable
and attractive alternatives to travel by automobile.
2.2.4 Protect, maintain and enhance the natural heritage system in a manner which
preserves its ecological integrity and function.
2.2.5 Provide access within walking distance to an appropriate supply of parks,
schools, community amenities and local retail and services.
2.2.6 Integrate the built and natural environments to create a sense of place and
identity, as well as provide access to nature in an appropriate manner.
2.2.7 Prioritize the creation of an attractive and vibrant public realm, integrated with
a hierarchy of community focal points, to serve as the focus of day-to-day
activities and community life.
2.2.8 Offer a variety of housing forms, sizes and tenures, including affordable
housing, that allow households of various sizes and incomes to find a home
within Southeast Courtice.
2.2.9 Celebrate the cultural heritage of the area in a manner which communicates
and preserves meaningful elements of its landscape and historic evolution.
2.2.10 Phase development in a manner which supports efficient infrastructure
implementation.
Southeast Courtice Secondary Plan - Draft
4
3 Community Structure
The community structure for the Southeast Courtice Secondary Plan establishes a
distribution of uses and intensities of development to achieve the objectives identified in
Section 2 of this Secondary Plan. The components of the Southeast Courtice
Secondary Plan that define its community structure are identified below.
3.1 Regional Corridor
3.1.1 Bloor Street, Courtice Road and Highway 2 are Regional Corridors. They are
Priority Intensification Areas and the likely routes for future transit service.
Regional Corridors align with the Medium Density Residential and High
Density/Mixed Use designations shown on Schedule A.
3.1.2 Regional Corridors shall be the location of the highest densities, tallest
buildings and greatest mixing of uses, in order to concentrate population in
areas with good access to transit and amenities.
3.1.3 Regional Corridors shall include a mix of low-, mid- and high-density buildings
that achieves an overall density of 85 units per net hectare.
3.1.4 Regional Corridors shall be the location of commercial retail and service uses
to serve the community. Commercial retail and services shall be concentrated
to reinforce community focal points.
3.1.5 Regional Corridors serve as the principal transportation routes through and
within the community. They will feature the highest frequency and most direct
transit connecting the area to the rest of Clarington and Durham Region.
3.1.6 Regional Corridors also contribute to local connectivity, joined to a grid
network of streets that connects to the rest of the neighbourhood.
3.1.7 Given volumes of vehicular traffic, particular care shall be given to creating an
environment that is safe, comfortable, attractive and efficient for users of
active transportation.
3.1.8 Within Regional Corridors, the public right-of-way and private built form shall
be designed to create important and inviting public spaces which contribute
significantly to the identity of the area and serve as community focal points.
3.2 Prominent Intersections
3.2.1 Prominent Intersections are located at Bloor Street and Trulls Road, Bloor
Street and Courtice Road, and Highway 2 and Courtice Road.
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3.2.2 Within Regional Corridors, the greatest heights and densities shall occur at
Prominent Intersections and the nodes which surround them. These areas
shall also have the greatest concentration of commercial retail and service
uses.
3.2.3 Among these nodes, a hierarchy will be established as follows:
a. Bloor Street and Courtice Road shall feature the greatest heights and
densities and the primary concentration of retail and service uses.
Notwithstanding Policy 4.2.4 of this plan, development at this intersection
shall have no maximum restriction in height. The location of a commercial
node, anchored by a full-service grocery, is encouraged that would allow
residents to meet many of their retail and service needs within the local
area.
b. Highway 2 and Courtice Road shall feature a similar intensity of
development as the node above, although over a smaller area. Existing
levels of retail and service uses will be maintained in this area.
c. Bloor Street and Trulls Road shall feature built form at the upper end of
the medium density category and an offer of retail and service uses that
provides amenity to the surrounding neighbourhoods.
3.2.4 The intensity of development and variety of uses will establish these areas as
community focal points. The significance of Prominent Intersections as
community focal points will be emphasized through building massing and
height, materiality, street furniture, landscaping, and public art.
3.3 Urban Residential
3.3.1 Urban Residential areas are predominantly residential areas, outside of the
Regional Corridors, which will feature built form of lower density and height in
ground-related units. Urban Residential areas correspond with the Low
Density Residential designation shown on Schedule A.
3.3.2 Urban Residential areas will be the location of many of Southeast Courtice’s
larger parks and schools. These amenities will be integrated into areas
removed from the intensity of the Regional Corridors.
3.3.3 Other compatible uses, including small-scale service and neighbourhood retail
commercial uses and home-based occupation will be permitted.
3.3.4 The interior of Urban Residential areas will have a minimum density of 13 units
per net hectare. Sites within Urban Residential areas adjacent to arterial roads
will have a minimum density of 19 units per net hectare.
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3.4 Parks and Open Space System
3.4.1 The parks and open space system comprises: Environmental Protection Areas
and associated areas, parks and other outdoor civic uses and stormwater
management features. Together, they provide spaces that support the
ecological and hydrological function of the area and serve as venues for
outdoor community and recreational life.
Environmental Protection Areas and Associated Areas
3.4.2 Environmental Protection Areas are the primary structuring component of the
parks and open space system. They include natural heritage features,
hydrologically sensitive features and lands within the regulatory flood plain of a
watercourse. Areas associated with Environmental Protection Areas support
the ecological integrity of the area and include vegetation protection zones
and other natural heritage areas. The preservation and enhancement of
Environmental Protection Areas will bring the imprint of the area’s natural
features and original geography into the development of Southeast Courtice in
a way that defines community structure and identity.
3.4.3 The features of the Robinson Creek and Tooley Creek systems contribute
particularly strongly to community structure and connect to a broader sub-
watershed beyond the Secondary Plan area boundaries. The Robinson Creek
defines the western boundary of the Secondary Plan area. The Tooley Creek
creates green spines that run through much of the Secondary Plan area.
3.4.4 Access to Environmental Protection Areas and associated areas and their use
for amenities such as trails will be undertaken in a manner which preserves
their ecological integrity. Environmental Protection Areas will serve as the
backbone of network of parks, trails and open spaces.
Parks
3.4.5 Parks are vital public spaces connecting to a broader public realm network. A
quantity and quality of park space shall be provided that meets the needs of
residents and enables a variety of opportunities for passive and active
recreation.
3.4.6 Parks shall be located to achieve a number of objectives:
a. By locating adjacent to Environmental Protection Areas, foster a
connection to natural areas, contribute to the identity of Southeast
Courtice as a community close to nature, create a visual connection to the
larger open space system and link into a system of trails.
b. By locating adjacent to other outdoor civic uses, like school grounds,
create larger open spaces and realize co-benefits in terms of amenities.
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c. Ensure that the entire community has good access to parks within walking
distance of their homes.
d. Ensure good access and visibility from public streets.
Stormwater Management Ponds
3.4.7 Stormwater management ponds will be treated as public assets and part of the
parks and open space system. Their amenity and ecological value will be
realized as: areas of passive recreation through the inclusion of paths and
trails; areas of ecological value as enhanced wildlife habitat through
appropriate planting; and visual extensions of other components of the parks
and open space system.
3.5 Gateways
3.5.1 Gateways shall be identified at key locations and feature built form or
landscape features that highlight entry into the Southeast Courtice area.
4 Land Use
4.1 General Policies
4.1.1 The pattern of land use is identified in Schedule A of the Secondary Plan.
Minor alterations which maintain the general intent of the policies of this
Secondary Plan may occur without amendment through the development
approval process in accordance with policies 24.1.2 and 24.1.3 of the
Clarington Official Plan.
4.2 High Density/Mixed Use
4.2.1 The High Density/Mixed Use designation allows for the greatest concentration
of density and mix of uses in the Secondary Plan Area along portions of
Regional Corridors. High Density/Mixed Use areas shall serve as community
focal points located at Prominent Intersections.
Permitted Uses
4.2.2 The following residential building types and commercial uses are permitted:
a. Apartment Building
b. Dwelling unit within a mixed-use building
c. Retail and service uses
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4.2.3 The High Density/Mixed Use designation supports mixed use buildings with
commercial uses located within a building podium.
Height and Density
4.2.4 Building heights shall be a minimum of 7 storeys and a maximum of 12
storeys.
4.2.5 The highest and most dense forms of development shall be located fronting
the Regional Corridor . Development shall provide a transition, locating less
dense and lower scale buildings in locations adjacent to lower density
designations.
4.2.6 New development within this designation shall provide a range of unit sizes
within multiple-unit buildings.
4.3 Medium Density Residential
4.3.1 Lands designated as Medium Density Residential are located within the
Regional Corridor.
4.3.2 The predominant use of lands within the Medium Density Residential
designation are a mix of housing types and tenures in mid- and low-rise
building forms. Retail and service uses shall be provided at strategic locations
to reinforce the community structure and provide access to local amenities
within walking distances for residents of the surrounding areas.
Permitted Uses
4.3.3 Permitted dwelling types shall include:
a. Apartment buildings;
b. Townhouses;
c. Stacked townhouses; and,
d. Dwelling units within a mixed-use building.
4.3.4 Retail and service commercial uses shall only be permitted on the ground floor
of a mixed use building with an entrance and frontage onto the Regional
Corridor or an arterial street.
4.3.5 Stand alone retail is not supported within this designation.
4.3.6 A concentration of retail reinforcing the Prominent Intersection of Bloor Street
and Trulls Road is encouraged.
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4.3.7 Along Regional Corridor frontages within the Medium Density Residential
designation, townhouses are permitted but shall not exceed 10% of the total
frontage.
4.3.8 To increase the visual interest of the streetscape and to promote permeability.
Height and Density
4.3.9 Building heights shall be a minimum of 3 storeys and shall not exceed 6
storeys.
4.3.10 The highest and most dense forms of development shall be located fronting
the Regional Corridor . Development shall provide a transition, locating less
dense and lower scale buildings in locations adjacent to the Low Density
Residential designation within the Urban Residential area.
4.3.11 New development within this designation shall consider a range of unit sizes
within multiple-unit buildings.
4.3.12 Buildings of less than 4 storeys shall not be permitted within 50 metres of an
intersection of a Regional Corridor with an arterial or collector street.
4.4 Low Density Residential
4.4.1 The predominant use of lands within the Low Density Residential designation
shall be a mix of housing types and tenures in low-rise building forms.
4.4.2 The consolidation and integrated development of properties within the Low
Density Residential designation shall be encouraged.
Permitted Uses
4.4.3 The following residential building types are permitted:
a. Detached dwellings;
b. Semi-detached dwellings;
c. Townhouses;
d. Low-rise apartments adjacent to arterial roads; and
e. Accessory apartments, as per Policy 6.3.5 of the Clarington Official Plan.
4.4.4 Small scale service and neighbourhood retail commercial uses which are
supportive of and compatible with residential uses are also permitted in
accordance with Policy 9.3.2 and 9.3.3 of the Clarington Official Plan.
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Height and Density
4.4.5 Buildings within the Low Density Residential designation shall not exceed 3
storeys in height.
4.4.6 Minimum net densities shall be provided in accordance with Policy 4.3.9 of the
Clarington Official Plan.
4.4.7 New development within this designation shall consider a range of unit sizes
within multiple-unit buildings.
4.5 Schools
4.5.1 The location of school sites are shown symbolically on Schedule A and shall
be further delineated through the development review process or during site
selection by a School Board.
4.5.2 The school sites shown on Schedule A shall not preclude the selection of
alternate school sites by a School Board.
4.5.3 School sites will be developed in accordance with the relevant policies of
Section 18.5 of the Clarington Official Plan.
4.5.4 In the event that all or part of a school site should not be required by a School
Board, the Municipality of Clarington shall be given the first opportunity to
purchase all or part of the school site.
4.5.5 Elementary school sites shall be located centrally to promote accessibility by
walking and, where feasible, adjacent to planned Neighbourhood Park sites.
4.5.6 Where a school site adjoins a Neighbourhood Park, the school site shall be
sized and designed to provide on-site recreational and athletic uses for the
school and to facilitate potential joint use between the Municipality and the
respective School Board.
4.6 Parks
4.6.1 Parks shall be provided as part of an integrated and connected parks and
open space system.
4.6.2 Parks shall be integrated and connected into a broader public realm network
that also includes civic/institutional uses, streets, mid-block connections, trails
and privately owned publicly-accessible spaces.
4.6.3 The park system, as a whole, shall provide a variety of opportunities for
passive and active recreation and be comprised of well-designed spaces that
contribute to the area’s sense of identity.
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4.6.4 The Parks designation for Southeast Courtice includes lands within the
following categories:
a. Neighbourhood Parks;
b. Parkettes; and
c. Public Squares.
4.6.5 Parks shall be established in accordance with the following:
a. Neighbourhood Parks are parks of between 1.5 and 3 hectares in size that
provide a variety of amenities, including sports fields. They are located in
central locations to allow for good accessibility by walking. All planned
school sites shall, wherever feasible, have a Neighbourhood Park abutting
them to provide areas of shared amenity.
b. Parkettes are parks of between 0.5 and 1.0 hectares in size that provide a
variety of amenities, but do not contain sports fields. Parkettes contribute
to the variety of leisure and recreational amenities in the community, and
improve accessibility to park space by walking.
c. Public Squares are smaller components of the parks system, not
exceeding 1.0 hectares. Public Squares shall enhance the public realm by
providing defined spaces for social interaction within the Medium Density
Residential and High Density/ Mixed Use designations. They will
contribute to the sense of place and add to the interest of the urban
environment.
4.6.6 Dedication of lands for Neighbourhood Parks, Parkettes and Public Squares
shall be in accordance with the Clarington Official Plan.
4.6.7 The location of all Neighbourhood Parks and some Parkettes are shown on
Schedule A. The precise size and location of each park shall be determined at
the time of development review and approval, based on the parkland provision
requirements of Section 18 of the Clarington Official Plan.
4.6.8 The location of Public Squares will be determined at the discretion of the
Municipality at the time of development review and approval for sites within the
Medium Density Residential and High Density/Mixed Use designations.
4.6.9 In addition to the publicly-owned lands which form the parks designation,
development is encouraged to include privately owned publicly-accessible
spaces that contribute to the sense of place in the community and the quality
of the urban environment. The Municipality will determine at its discretion the
potential for these spaces to result in a reduction of parkland dedication
requirements.
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4.6.10 Areas conveyed for parkland purposes will be programmable lands.
Environmental Protection Areas and associated vegetation protection zones
shall not be conveyed to satisfy parkland dedication requirements.
4.7 Environmental Protection Area
4.7.1 Lands designated Environmental Protection Area are shown on Schedule A.
They include natural heritage features, hydrologically sensitive features and
lands within the regulatory flood plain of a watercourse.
4.7.2 All development shall adhere to the Natural Heritage System policies of
Section 3.4, the Watershed and Subwatershed Plans policies of Section 3.5,
the Hazards policies of Section 3.7 and the Environmental Protection Areas
policies of Section 14.4 of the Clarington Official Plan.
4.7.3 The delineation of lands designated as Environmental Protection Area are
approximate and shall be detailed through appropriate studies prepared as
part of the review of development applications in accordance with the policies
of the Clarington Official Plan.
4.7.4 Environmental Protection Areas are encouraged to be conveyed to a public
authority, where appropriate, as part of the development approval process at
minimal or no cost to the receiving public authority. Conveyance of lands
designated Environmental Protection Area and associated vegetation
protection zones shall not be considered as contributions towards the parkland
dedication requirements under the Planning Act.
4.8 Environmental Constraints Overlay
4.8.1 Environmental Constraints are shown as an overlay on Schedule A.
4.8.2 Environmental Constraints include features identified as “Moderate Constraint
Areas” in the Robinson Creek and Tooley Creek Subwatershed Study Phase 1
Report completed by Aquafor Beech Ltd. These features are not currently
identified as Environmental Protection Areas but have potential ecological or
hydrological value that requires site-specific assessment.
4.8.3 The presence and precise delineation of these features and the level of
development acceptable shall be determined through an Environmental
Impact Study prepared as part of the review of development applications in
accordance with the policies of the Clarington Official Plan. The study will
determine whether proposed development will have a significant negative
impact on the identified features/functions. Mitigation and/or compensation
measures may be recommended to offset impacts.
4.8.4 If the study establishes that development can proceed, then the underlying
designation shall apply over those lands.
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4.8.5 The Subwatershed Study referenced in Policy 4.8.2 also identifies “Low
Constraint Areas”, comprising features in which development intrusion is not
restricted by existing policies and regulations. It is encouraged that these
features be incorporated into site‐level plans where possible to avoid net loss
of natural cover.
4.8.6 The Subwatershed Study referenced in Policy 4.8.2 identifies and assesses a
number of Headwater Drainage Features. Those identified as “protection” are
included in the Environmental Protection Area designation. For those
Headwater Drainage Features identified as “conservation”, applications for
development shall:
a. Maintain, relocate and/or enhance the drainage feature and its riparian
corridor;
b. If catchment drainage will be removed due to diversion of stormwater
flows, restore lost functions through enhanced lot level controls as
feasible;
c. Maintain or replace on‐site flows using mitigation measures and/or
wetland creation, if necessary;
d. Maintain or replace external flows to the extent feasible; and
e. Use natural channel design techniques to maintain or enhance the overall
productivity of the reach.
5 Urban Design
5.1 General
5.1.1 Development shall distribute heights, densities and concentrations of varied
uses as per the policies of this Secondary Plan to realize diversity within the
built environment and create community focal points.
5.1.2 Development shall provide good transitions between areas of different
development intensity and uses within the Secondary Plan area and to the
areas and uses outside its boundaries.
5.1.3 A grid network of streets and associated blocks shall serve to integrate and
link high, medium and low density areas into a unified urban fabric. This
highly-connected network of streets shall be supplemented by mid-block
connections and trails to further enhance the pedestrian permeability of the
area and the efficiency and variety of pedestrian routes.
5.1.4 Development shall contribute to the creation of a high quality public realm
which is safe, comfortable, visually-pleasing and animated, supports active
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transportation and community life, and contributes to the distinct character of
Southeast Courtice.
5.1.5 Streets, mid-block connections and trails are important parts of the public
realm. In addition to serving as routes, they shall serve as public places in
their own right and a venue for community life. They link Southeast Courtice
together, and with other public places create a public realm network.
5.1.6 The primary orientation of buildings and the location of main entrances shall
be on a public street. Reverse frontage development generally shall not be
permitted within the Secondary Plan Area.
5.1.7 Built form shall be massed and sited to frame streets and public spaces in a
consistent manner and provide at-grade animation.
5.1.8 Architectural detailing and massing shall be used to create built form variation
that is harmonious and that avoids repetition which can reduce the visual
interest of streetscapes.
5.1.9 Development shall limit the negative impacts of parking and loading on the
public realm.
5.1.10 Development shall enhance the experience of the community within its natural
setting, linking the Regional Corridor and lower density areas to the parks and
open space system.
5.1.11 Development within the Secondary Plan Area shall be developed in
accordance with the urban design policies of this Secondary Plan as well as
the Urban Design and Sustainability Guidelines.
5.2 Development within Regional Corridors
5.2.1 The urban design policies in this section pertain to lands designated High
Density/Mixed Use and Medium Density Residential.
Intensity and Transitions
5.2.2 Within the Regional Corridors the greatest heights and highest density
buildings shall be located on the Regional Corridor frontage, with height and
density decreasing as a transition to lower density designations and
Environmental Protection Areas. The Municipality may require that
applications for development include an analysis as part of the development
review process to address applicable angular plane guidance.
5.2.3 Along the Regional Corridor, the greatest heights and densities will occur
primarily at Prominent Intersections and secondarily at the intersection of
Regional Corridors with other arterials.
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5.2.4 Development may be required to undertake technical studies including a wind
study and/or sun/shadow study which demonstrate mitigation of potential
shadow or wind impacts on existing or proposed parks, pedestrian routes and
public spaces to the satisfaction of the Municipality.
Public Realm and Connections
5.2.5 Development shall be located at or close to the property line to frame the
street and provide a continuous streetscape.
5.2.6 Development shall be oriented toward the Regional Corridor with the main
entrances and animating uses facing the street to activate the public realm
and enhance the pedestrian environment. More broadly, development shall be
sited and building elevations and site plans designed to create an animated
frontage or flankage of streets, mid-block connections and public spaces to
achieve animation and passive surveillance, through the location of building
entrances and outdoor amenity areas, street furniture, and glazing.
5.2.7 Side and rear elevations visible from the public realm shall have desirable
façade treatments.
5.2.8 New development shall provide a balance of hard and soft landscaping.
5.2.9 Mid-block pedestrian connections shall be provided at regular intervals from
the Regional Corridor to improve access from interior neighbourhoods to
arterial streets.
5.2.10 Gridded rectilinear lot dimensions shall be established within the Regional
Corridor.
Parking, Loading and Mechanical Structures
5.2.11 Parking and loading facilities shall not be located between building(s) and the
public right of way, to promote an attractive public realm and encourage
pedestrian activity.
5.2.12 Off-street parking areas shall be configured to reduce their visual impact when
viewed from the public realm or adjacent residential lots by:
a. Locating parking facilities underground or within a parking structure that is
integrated within a residential, mixed-use or commercial building;
b. Establishing joint access to parking lots on adjoining properties where
feasible;
c. Using hard and soft landscaping within the parking area to reduce the
visual impact of large parking surfaces;
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d. Screening parking areas adjacent to residential properties using a
combination of opaque fencing or walls and landscaping;
e. Screening parking areas through the use of low decorative fences, walls
and landscaping; and
f. Locating site access at the rear of properties fronting the Regional
Corridor.
5.2.13 Loading, servicing and other functional elements shall not be located adjacent
to public spaces and shall be screened from view to avoid visual impact to the
public realm or surrounding residential areas.
5.2.14 Loading areas are encouraged to be integrated within a building envelope.
5.2.15 Garbage and recycling facilities shall be integrated within a building envelope.
5.2.16 All major rooftop mechanical structures or fixtures including satellite dishes
communications antenna shall be suitably screened and integrated with the
building. Parapets may be utilized to accommodate such screening.
5.3 Development within Low Density Residential Designation
5.3.1 To ensure development in Low Density Residential areas contributes to
attractive streetscapes and an inviting, comfortable pedestrian realm, the
following policies shall apply:
a. Dwelling units shall have their main entrance visible and accessible from
the sidewalk;
b. Garages are encouraged to be accessed from a rear lane, particularly for
townhouses and/or lots less than 12 metres wide;
c. Where garages are located at the front of the building facing a street, they
shall be set recessed or flush with the front wall of the house;
d. Driveways shall not exceed the width of the garage;
e. The majority of lots along the length of a block shall have front yards with
a minimum of 50% soft landscaping;
f. The maximum number of contiguously attached townhouses shall be six;
g. Buildings on corner lots or abutting parks shall have windows, materials
and architectural treatments consistent with the front elevation where
sides or flankage of buildings is visible;
h. Front and exterior side yard porches shall be encouraged.
5.3.2 Individual site access for any permitted residential use adjacent to an Arterial
Road generally shall not be permitted. Rear laneways shall be the preferred
option for accessing such sites.
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5.3.3 Policies 5.2.11 to 5.2.16, pertaining to parking, loading, garbage/recycling and
mechanical, apply to the development of low-rise apartments within the Low
Density Residential designation.
5.3.4 Policies 5.2.12 to 5.2.16, pertaining to parking, loading, and mechanical, apply
to the development of townhouses within the Low Density Residential
designation.
5.4 Transition
5.4.1 Where new development abuts a lawfully existing use, mitigation measures
including transition setbacks or buffers shall be provided from the adjacent
lawfully existing use in accordance with the appropriate studies and in keeping
with the Urban Design and Sustainability Guidelines.
5.4.2 Where new development abuts designated Prime Agricultural land, mitigation
measures including transition setbacks or buffers shall be provided from the
adjacent designation in accordance with the Urban Design and Sustainability
Guidelines. Any required mitigation shall be provided for within the Urban
Area.
5.4.3 Applications for new development may be required to undertake studies to
ensure compatibility with adjacent uses, addressing such adverse impacts as
noise, vibration, dust and odour or the location of industrial facilities on
adjacent employment lands.
5.5 Private Amenities
5.5.1 New multi-unit residential development will provide space for both indoor and
outdoor amenities. Each resident will have access to outdoor amenity spaces
which may include private outdoor spaces including balconies, terraces and
rooftop gardens or privately owned and publicly accessible spaces including
gardens and courtyards.
5.5.2 Courtyards and privately owned publicly-accessible amenities should be
accessed by at least two points of access.
5.5.3 The design and location of entrances to courtyards and privately owned
publicly-accessible amenities shall be clearly identifiable as public to
encourage public use through their siting and the use of design elements.
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6 Housing
6.1 A variety of housing forms, sizes and tenures shall be provided in Southeast
Courtice to meet the needs of a diverse population and households of various
sizes, incomes and age compositions. This housing mix is encouraged to
include purpose-built rental and seniors housing.
6.2 Affordable housing is encouraged to locate within the Regional Corridors to
provide residents excellent access to public transit.
6.3 Affordable housing, including subsidized non-market housing units, is
encouraged to be integrated within neighbourhoods and combined in
developments that also provide market housing to provide opportunities for a
range of housing tenures and prices that support diversity.
6.4 New affordable housing should incorporate barrier-free, universal or flex
design features in both common and living areas.
6.5 The Municipality should collaborate with public and non-profit housing
providers to encourage a supply of subsidized non-market housing units to be
included within the housing mix in the Secondary Plan area.
6.6 To support the provision of affordable housing units, the Municipality will
explore other potential incentives under a Community Improvement Plan or
other legislated tool, such as reduced or deferred development charges,
reduced application fees, grants and loans, to encourage the development of
affordable housing units. The Municipality will also encourage Durham Region
to consider financial incentives for affordable housing.
6.7 As an incentive for the provision of affordable housing, as defined in Section
24.2 of the Clarington Official Plan, reductions in the minimum parking
requirement under the Zoning By-law may be considered by the Municipality
on a site-by-site basis where housing that is affordable is provided as part of a
development proposal.
6.8 The Municipality shall explore options such as the dedication of land, or
payment-in-lieu, to support the construction of affordable housing units in
Clarington.
6.9 A range of unit sizes are encouraged within apartment and multi-unit buildings,
including those suitable for larger households and families.
6.10 An accessory apartment is permitted within the Secondary Plan Area within a
detached or semi-detached dwelling subject to the following:
a. Only one accessory apartment is permitted;
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b. One additional parking space is required for the accessory apartment in
accordance with the Zoning By-law;
c. Sufficient water supply and sanitary servicing capacity exists;
d. The accessory apartment complies with the provisions of the Ontario
Building Code, Ontario Fire Code and any other relevant regulations; and
e. The accessory apartment is registered with the Municipality.
7 Transportation
7.1 Transportation Network
7.1.1 The transportation network in the Southeast Courtice Secondary Plan area
shall be developed in accordance with Schedule B Transportation, Parks and
Open Space and the policies of this Secondary Plan, with further guidance
provided in the Urban Design and Sustainability Guidelines and the Southeast
Courtice Transportation Network Report. It shall include public roads, public
rear lanes, transit, and bicycle and pedestrian routes and facilities.
7.1.2 The road network shall be aligned to create a modified rectilinear grid pattern
that defines development blocks and establishes a highly interconnected and
permeable network that supports active transportation and maximizes
accessibility and support for transit. Connectivity by active transportation
throughout the Secondary Plan area and to surrounding areas shall be further
enhanced by mid-block connections and trails through and across
Environmental Protection Areas.
7.2 Road Network
7.2.1 The alignment of arterial and collector roads is shown on Schedule B. These
alignments are approximate and will be built according to detailed planning
and engineering studies. Changes to the alignments which the Municipality
determines are in keeping with the intent of this Secondary Plan shall not
require an amendment to this Plan.
7.2.2 Development applications for lands abutting the arterial road and collector
roads shown in Schedule B shall require that lands be dedicated for road
widenings as determined by the Municipality or Region.
7.2.3 Roads shall be designed to ensure that all kinds of traffic can use them in a
safe and comfortable manner: motorists, transit users, cyclists, pedestrians
and people with accessibility challenges. Active modes of transportation and
the needs of the most vulnerable users shall be prioritized.
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7.2.4 Roads shall be designed to be important public places and create
environments which are safe, inviting, comfortable and visually-pleasing for
pedestrians and other forms of active transportation.
7.2.5 Courtice Road and Bloor Street are Regional Corridors and Type A arterials.
They shall be developed as Multi-Ways as detailed in the Urban Design and
Sustainability Guidelines. The design of the Multi-Ways shall realize the
following objectives:
a. Fulfill the function of a Type A Arterial as an efficient and high-volume
route for a range of travel modes;
b. Connect the grid network of local and collector roads to the Regional
Corridor to support high levels of permeability and accessibility between
high density and low density areas; and
c. Create an attractive urban corridor which functions as a successful public
place, a community focal point, as well as a safe and comfortable
environment for active transportation.
7.2.6 The Municipality of Clarington will work with the Region of Durham to design
and stage the implementation of the Multi-Way concept on the portions of
Courtice Road and Bloor Street within the Secondary Plan area, and shall
consider its extension beyond the Secondary Plan area’s borders.
7.2.7 Newly constructed and reconstructed arterial and collector roads shall be built
with sidewalks on both sides. Cycling shall be provided for through on-road or
off-road facilities.
7.3 Local Roads
7.3.1 Local roads shall be established on a rectilinear grid pattern to realize high
connectivity and permeability across the Secondary Plan area, modified to
local geography and to respect Environmental Protection Areas.
7.3.2 The grid pattern of streets will create blocks with a maximum length of 200 m.
7.3.3 Draft plans of subdivision shall have regard for the design guidelines for local
roads, laneways and green streets contained in the Urban Design and
Sustainability Guidelines.
7.3.4 Sidewalks shall be considered for all new local roads on both sides and set
back from the curb or otherwise buffered from active lanes of traffic.
7.3.5 On street parking shall be considered on all local roads and within the
Municipal portion of the Multi-Way rights-of-way on Bloor Street and Courtice
Road.
Southeast Courtice Secondary Plan - Draft
21
7.3.6 Local roads shall be designed to incorporate passive and physical traffic
calming measures to reduce speeds and improve safety.
7.4 Public Rear Lanes
7.4.1 Public rear lanes are encouraged to support safe and attractive streets by
eliminating the need for driveways and street-facing garages.
7.4.2 Public rear lanes shall be designed to have a right-of-way width of 8.5 metres.
7.4.3 Public utilities may be located within public rear lanes subject to functional and
design standards established by the Municipality.
7.5 Public Transit
7.5.1 The Municipality, in conjunction with the Region of Durham, shall integrate
Southeast Courtice into the regional public transportation system.
7.5.2 To facilitate the development of a transit-supportive urban structure, the
following measures shall be reflected in development proposals, including the
subdivision of land:
a. Transit-supportive densities within the Regional Corridor;
b. An active transportation network that promotes direct pedestrian access to
transit routes and stops;
c. Provision for transit stops and incorporation of bus-bays where
appropriate into road design requirements; and
d. Transit waiting areas incorporated into buildings located adjacent to transit
stops.
7.6 Integration and Quality of Active Transportation Routes
7.6.1 The active transportation network may be provided within road rights-of-way
as well as through trails and mid-block connections. Active transportation
connections across barriers (natural and related to infrastructure) shall be
planned at appropriate walking/cycling intervals to reduce barriers between
areas and increase accessibility for all ages and abilities.
7.6.2 Destinations such as natural areas, parks, schools, recreation areas and
stores and connections with areas outside the Secondary Plan area
boundaries will be integrated through the on- and off-street active
transportation network.
Southeast Courtice Secondary Plan - Draft
22
7.6.3 All collector and local roads shall also be planned to include a vibrant and
healthy tree canopy, consisting of primarily native plantings. The tree canopy
will provide shade and enhance and establish a vibrant urban environment. A
tree canopy plan shall be prepared for each plan of subdivision. In order to
maximize the amount of tree planting and to minimize the removal of in-situ
trees, the co-location of utilities is encouraged.
8 Servicing, Infrastructure and Environmental
Performance
8.1 Extension of Municipal Services
8.1.1 All new development within the Southeast Courtice Secondary Plan area shall
proceed on the basis of the sequential extension of full municipal services
through the Regional and Municipal capital works programs and plans of
subdivision.
8.2 Infrastructure and Utilities
8.2.1 Telecommunications/communications utilities, electrical stations or sub-
stations, mail boxes or super mail boxes and similar facilities should be
incorporated and built into architectural and landscaping features, rather than
being freestanding. They shall be compatible with the appearance of adjacent
uses and include anti-graffiti initiatives.
8.2.2 Super mail boxes will not be located in a municipally owned park.
8.3 Stormwater Management and Low Impact Development
8.3.1 Proposed stormwater management quality, quantity, erosion control and water
balance for ground water and natural systems shall be assessed during the
development approval process to determine the impact on the natural heritage
system and environmental features.
8.3.2 The submission of the following plans and reports shall be required to
determine the impact of stormwater quality/quantity, erosion and water
balance of the proposed development:
a. Stormwater Management Report and Plan;
b. Erosion and Sediment Control Plan; and
c. Servicing Plans.
Southeast Courtice Secondary Plan - Draft
23
8.3.3 The Stormwater Management Report and Plan identified in Policy 8.3.2 shall
apply a range of stormwater management practices including Low Impact
Development to ensure water quality control, baseflow management, water
temperature control and the protection of aquatic habitat. The Stormwater
Management Report and Plan shall explore and consider the feasibility of and
opportunities to implement such Low Impact Development measures as:
a. Permeable hardscaping;
b. Bioretention areas;
c. Exfiltration systems;
d. Bioswales and infiltration trenches;
e. Third pipe systems;
f. Vegetation filter strips;
g. Green roofs (multi-unit buildings);
h. Rainwater harvesting; and
i. Other potential measures.
8.3.4 Stormwater management plans shall demonstrate how the water balance
target set in the Robinson Creek and Tooley Creek Subwatershed Study is
met.
8.3.5 Stormwater management for all development shall be undertaken on a volume
control basis and shall demonstrate the maintenance of recharge rates, flow
paths and water quality to the greatest extent possible. Peak flow control and
the maintenance of pre-development water balance shall be demonstrated.
8.3.6 Significant ground water recharge areas shall maintain a pre-development
water balance.
8.3.7 Development of all detached, semi-detached and townhouse dwellings shall
demonstrate the use of 300 mm of amended topsoil or equivalent system to
improve surface porosity and permeability over all turf and landscaped areas
beyond 3 metres of a building foundation and beyond tree protection areas.
8.4 Urban Forest and Native Plantings
8.4.1 The preservation of trees on site is strongly encouraged. Mature trees shall be
incorporated into the landscape plan of new development, where possible.
Injury or destruction of trees shall be subject to Municipality of Clarington By-
law 97-35.
8.4.2 Together, new development and public realm improvements shall establish an
urban canopy throughout the Secondary Plan area to reduce the heat island
Southeast Courtice Secondary Plan - Draft
24
effect, provide for shade and wind cover and contribute to a green and
attractive environment.
8.4.3 New development and public realm improvements will be encouraged to use
native plant species wherever possible and particularly along rights-of-way
and pedestrian trails.
8.4.4 All private development shall be supported by landscape plans which
demonstrate how the development will contribute to the urban forest, improve
the health and diversity of the natural environment, support other local plant
and animal species and further enhance the connectivity of the built
environment to natural heritage and hydrologic features.
8.4.5 A diversity of tree species shall be planted in parks, parkettes and along
rights-of-way to provide a healthy and more robust tree inventory that is less
prone to insects and diseases.
8.4.6 Selection of tree species within the Secondary Plan area will contribute the
Municipality’s objective that each tree species planted within the Municipality
not account for more than 10% of the overall tree inventory.
8.5 Building Technology
8.5.1 Buildings shall be constructed with attractive and durable materials that
conserve energy by lowering maintenance and replacement costs.
8.5.2 New development shall consider the use of renewable energy sources.
8.5.3 New development shall consider the use of technologies such as green roofs
and reflective roof surface materials with high thermal reflectivity.
8.6 Role of Urban Design and Sustainability Guidelines
8.6.1 The Southeast Courtice Urban Design and Sustainability Guidelines contained
in Appendix A further articulate strategies for achieving the sustainability
policies of this Secondary Plan.
9 Community Culture and Heritage
9.1 Reflecting the Local Community
9.1.1 The conservation and enhancement of significant cultural heritage resources
shall be consistent with the provisions of Section 8 of the Clarington Official
Plan and all relevant Provincial legislation and policy directives.
Southeast Courtice Secondary Plan - Draft
25
9.1.2 The naming and design of parks, public spaces and prominent streetscapes
shall have regard for the evolved cultural and natural heritage landscape.
These features and amenities shall incorporate local heritage or natural
influences including historic names, interpretive features, vernacular building
elements, plantings and historic drainage patterns.
9.2 Location of Future Community Facilities
9.2.1 Future community facilities shall be located in highly accessible areas that can
be accessed by pedestrians and cyclists, as well as by automobile.
9.2.2 The co-location of elementary schools and future community facilities shall be
considered.
10 Implementation and Interpretation
10.1 Environmental Study Area
10.1.1 Lands identified as Environmental Study Area are identified on Schedule A.
The lands generally bound by Trulls Road in the west, Courtice Road in the
east, Bloor Street in the South and Meadowglade Road to the north and
shown on Schedule A have been identified as an Environmental Study Area.
10.1.2 The Environmental Study Area identifies an Area that contains complex
natural features and functions, many of which require additional study to
define. An Environmental Impact Study shall be prepared for the Area, in
accordance with the policies of the Official Plan.
10.1.3 Until the Environmental Impact Study has been completed in accordance with
Section 10.1.2, land uses within the Environmental Study Area shall be
limited to existing uses.
10.1.4 Following the completion of the required study to the satisfaction of the
Municipality, the Environmental Study Area may be lifted as deemed
appropriate by the study, without amendment to this Plan, and the underlying
land use designation will apply.
10.1.5 The Zoning By-law shall be amended as appropriate following the completion
of the required study to implement new land use permissions for this area.
10.2 Zoning By-law
10.2.1 A Zoning By-law shall implement the policies of this Secondary Plan.
Southeast Courtice Secondary Plan - Draft
26
10.3 Implementation
10.3.1 The policies of this Secondary Plan shall be considered when making
decisions related to development of the lands within the Southeast Courtice
Secondary Plan Area. The policies of this Secondary Plan shall be
implemented by exercising the powers conferred upon the Municipality by the
Planning Act, the Municipal Act and any other applicable statues, and in
accordance with the applicable policies of the Official Plan.
10.3.2 The Municipality will monitor the policies of this Secondary Plan as part of the
five-year Official Plan review and propose updates as deemed necessary.
10.3.3 It is not possible or desirable to recognize all existing uses in the Secondary
Plan. An existing use of land, building or structure which is lawfully in
existence prior to the passage of the implementing Zoning By-law and which
does not conform to this Secondary Plan, but continues to be used for such
purposes, shall be deemed to be legal non-conforming.
10.3.4 Non-conforming uses, legal or otherwise, shall be encouraged to relocate or
redevelop so that the subject land may be used in conformity with the policies
of this Secondary Plan and the provisions of the implementing Zoning By-law.
10.3.5 Inherent to the Southeast Courtice Secondary Plan is the principle of flexibility,
provided that the general intent and structure of the Plan are maintained to the
satisfaction of the Municipality. As such, it is the intent of the Municipality to
permit some flexibility in the interpretation of the policies, regulations and
numerical requirements of this Secondary Plan except where this Secondary
Plan is explicitly intended to be prescriptive. The Urban Design and
Sustainability Guidelines, including the Demonstration Plan, are contained as
an appendix to this Secondary Plan. The Urban Design and Sustainability
Guidelines provide design principles and specific guidelines for both the public
and private sectors. They indicate the Municipality of Clarington’s expectations
with respect to the character, quality and form of development in the
Southeast Courtice community. The Demonstration Plan illustrates the
planning principles that are inherent to the Secondary Plan. It is one example
of how the Secondary Plan might be implemented within the Secondary Plan
area. The Urban Design and Sustainability Guidelines and Demonstration Plan
have been approved by Council, however do not require any formal
amendment process to implement an alternative design solution, or solutions
at any time in the future.
10.3.6 Engineering infrastructure shall follow the schedule within the Municipality’s
and Region’s capital budget, as agreed to by the landowners’ group.
10.3.7 Approval of development applications shall be conditional upon commitments
from the appropriate authorities and the proponents of development to the
timing and funding of the required road and transportation facilities, parks and
Southeast Courtice Secondary Plan - Draft
27
community facilities. These works shall be provided for in the subdivision and
site plan agreements. Phasing of the development, based on the completion
of the external road works, may be required by the Municipality of Clarington.
10.3.8 Approval of development applications shall also be conditional upon
commitments from the appropriate authorities and the proponents of
development to the timing and funding of required stormwater management,
sanitary sewer and water supply facilities. These works shall be provided for in
subdivision and site plan agreements. Phasing of development, based on the
completion of external sewer and water services, may be implemented if
required by the Municipality of Clarington.
10.4 Interpretation
10.4.1 The Southeast Courtice Secondary Plan has been prepared to align with the
policies of the Official Plan. The policies of this Secondary Plan, along with
Maps and Appendices shall be read and interpreted in conjunction with the
policies of the Official Plan.
10.4.2 In the event of a conflict between the Official Plan and this Secondary Plan,
the policies of the Secondary Plan shall prevail.
10.4.3 The boundaries shown on Schedule A to this Plan are approximate, except
where they meet with existing roads, river valleys or other clearly defined
physical features. Where the general intent of this Secondary Plan is
maintained to the satisfaction of the Municipality, minor boundary adjustments
will not require an amendment to this Secondary Plan.
10.4.4 Where examples of permitted uses are listed under any specific land use
designation, they are intended to provide examples of possible uses. Other
similar uses may be permitted provided they conform to the intent and all
applicable provisions of this Secondary Plan.
4
4
4
4Legend
_
Schedule B - Transportation, Parks
and Open Space
- Southeast Courtice Secondary Plan -
4
4
4
NP NP
NP
NP
P
P
P NP
NP
NP
P
P
Legend
NP
Note: *Final SWF locations to be determined by Robinson Tooley Subwatershed Study / Landowners
**Area subject to further environmental study
Meado
w
gl
a
d
e
R
o
a
d
Bloor StreetGranville DriveTrulls RoadFarmington DriveSandringham Drive
Hancock RoadCourtice RoadHighway
2
Environmental Study Area**
Watercourse
Environmental Constraints
Environmental Protection Area
Stormwater Management Facilities (SWF)*
Elementary School
Parkette
Neighbourhood Park
Trails
Collector (On-Street Bicycle Lane)
Arterial C (Dedicated Bicycle Lane)
Arterial B (Dedicated Bicycle Lane)
Arterial A (Dedicated Bicycle Lane)
SECSP Boundary
NP
P
4
Urban Design and Sustainability Guidelines
Southeast Courtice
June 2020
DRAFT
Table of Contents
1. Introduction 7
1.1 Purpose and Application 7
1.2 Structure of the Document 8
1.3 Related Documents and Guidelines 9
1.4 Background & Context 10
1.5 SEC Demonstration Plan 11
2. Community Structure 13
2.1 Environmental Protection Areas 14
2.3 Prominent Intersections 16
2.4 View Corridors 17
2.5 Livable Neighbourhoods 18
2.6 Development Blocks and Lots (Block Orientation) 19
2.7 Siting Guidelines, Streetscape Variety, Built Form, Massing 20
2.8 Built Heritage & Cultural Resources 21
3. Public Realm 23
3.1 Access and Circulation 24
3.2 Road Network 25
3.3 Active Transportation Network 34
3.4 Transit Network 38
3.5 Parks & Open Spaces 40
3.6 Neighbourhood Parks 42
3.7 Parkettes 43
3.8 Public Squares 44
3.9 Sitewide Low Impact Development & Stormwater Ponds 45
4. Private Realm 47
4.1 Mixed Use, High Density Residential 48
4.2 Medium Density Residential 50
4.3 Low Density Residential 52
4.4 Schools 54
5. Transition Zone 57
5.1 Development Adjacent to Agriculture 58
5.2 Development Adjacent to Employment Areas 59
5.3 Development Adjacent to Natural Heritage 60
5.4 Development Adjacent to Parkland 61
5.5 Development within the Regional Corridor 63
Municipality of Clarington Urban Design and Sustainability Guidelines for Southeast Courtice
4 AECOM
Figure Numbers
Figure 1: Southeast Courtice Secondary Plan : Schedule A - Land Use 7
Figure 2: Structure of the document 8
Figure 3: Related Documents and Guidelines 9
Figure 4: Existing Context 10
Figure 5: SEC Demostration Plan 11
Figure 6: Community Structure 13
Figure 7: Environmental Protection Area 14
Figure 9: Prominent Intersections 16
Figure 10: View Corridors 17
Figure 11: Livable Neighbourhoods 18
Figure 12: Development Blocks and Lots 19
Figure 13: Sitting, Built Form & Massing 20
Figure 14: Built Heritage and Cultural Resources 21
Figure 15: SEC Public Realm 23
Figure 16: Access and Circulation 24
Figure 17: Road Network 25
Figure 18: Arterial A (Frontage Road/ Multi-way) 26
Figure 19: Arterial B 27
Figure 20: Arterial C 28
Figure 21: Collector Road 29
Figure 22: Local Roads 30
Figure 23: Laneways 31
Figure 24: On-Street Parking - Typical Layout 32
Figure 25: On-Street Parking 32
Figure 26: Green Street Strategies 33
Figure 27: Active Transportation Network 34
Figure 28: Sidewalk 35
Figure 29: Mid-Block Connection 35
Figure 30: Street Crossing 35
Figure 31: Dedicated Bicycle Path 36
Figure 32: Dedicated Bicycle Path 36
Figure 33: Primary Trail 37
Municipality of Clarington Urban Design and Sustainability Guidelines for Southeast Courtice
5AECOM
Figure 34: Secondary Trail 37
Figure 35: Transit Network 38
Figure 36: Parks & Open Spaces 40
Figure 37: Courtice Memorial Park 41
Figure 38: Neighbourhood Parks 42
Figure 39: Parkettes 43
Figure 40: Public Squares 44
Figure 41: Stormwater Ponds 45
Figure 42: Private Realm 47
Figure 43: Mixed Use and High Density Residential - Landuse Distribution 48
Figure 44: Mixed Use, High Density Residential - Cross Section 49
Figure 45: Mixed Use, High Density Residential - Typical Layout 49
Figure 46: Medium Density Residential - Landuse Distribution 50
Figure 47: Medium Density Residential - Cross Section 51
Figure 48: Medium Density Residential - Typical Layout 51
Figure 49: Low Density Residential - Landuse Distribution 52
Figure 50: Low Density Residential - Cross Section 53
Figure 51: Low Density Residential - Typical Layout 53
Figure 52: Elementary Schools - Landuse Distribution 54
Figure 53: Transition Zone 57
Figure 54: Development Adjacent to Prime Agriculture Lands - Cross 58
Figure 55: DevelopmentAdjacent to Prime Agriculture Lands - Plan 58
Figure 56: Development Adjacent to Employment Areas - Cross Section 59
Figure 57: Development Adjacent to Employment Areas - Plan 59
Figure 58: Development Adjacent to Natural Heritage - Cross Section 60
Figure 59: Development Adjacent to Natural Heritage - Plan 60
Figure 60: Development Adjacent to Parkland - Cross Section 61
Figure 61: Development Adjacent to Parkland - Plan 61
Figure 62: Typical Medium Density Residential Block Layout 62
Figure 63: Built Form and Connectivity along the Regional Arterial 63
Figure 66: Typical Mixed Use/ High Density Residential Block Layout 64
Figure 67: Built Form Transition within a Mixed Use / High Density Block 65
Callout 1 can be used over a photo or alone
Callout 2 can be used over a photo or alone
Callout 3 can be used over a photo or alone
1. Introduction
What is a Complete & Sustainable Community?
How do we design and build one?
Complete communities are designed to meet people’s needs for daily living
throughout an entire lifetime by providing convenient access to an appropriate
mix of jobs, local services, public service facilities, and a full range of housing to
accommodate a range of incomes and household sizes.
1.1 Purpose and Application
The Southeast Courtice Secondary Plan (SECSP) provides a framework to create
a high quality, enjoyable, healthy community, using new, emerging sustainable
planning techniques for a more resilient building form. The Urban Design &
Sustainability Guidelines (UDSG) support the vision of the Secondary
Plan and provide guidance to achieve the objectives as development is
implemented through subdivision, zoning and site plan control.
The UDSG builds on Clarington Council’s sustainable ‘ green lens’ approach to
development and promotes a consistent level of high quality urban design to
celebrate and enhance the history and character of Courtice.
Plan, the policies of the SEC Secondary Plan, SEC Zoning By-law, Priority Green,
Clarington’s Green Development Framework and Implementation Plan and
Clarington General Architectural Design Guidelines.
Municipality of Clarington Urban Design and Sustainability Guidelines for Southeast Courtice
7AECOM
Figure 1: Southeast Courtice Secondary Plan : Schedule A - Land Use
AECOM8
Municipality of Clarington Urban Design and Sustainability Guidelines for Southeast Courtice
1.2 Structure of the Document
The SEC UDSG provides performance
based direction and measurable
targets for building and site design to
support the SECSP policy framework,
i.e. To create a new compact, walkable,
friendly and accessible neighbourhood
in Courtice to manage growth, using
sustainable, responsive and defensible
land distribution and housing
strategies.
sections;
Section 1 provides an understanding
of the role and application of the
guidelines, a background, policy
context, vision and objectives of the
study area.
Section 2
elements of the community, Section
3 and 4, focus on the public realm and
private realm respectively with Section
5 responding to the interface between
uses and building typologies.
While the SEC UDSG and the
Performance Standards are intended
as a reference, they indicate
the Municipality of Clarington’s
expectations with respect to the
character, quality and form of
development in the Secondary Plan
area. The guidelines also provide
the Municipality with an objective,
consistent evaluation framework
to assess future development
applications.
As shown in the graphic below, each Performance Standard comprises three elements. These elements include;
–The Principle (the objective);
–The Guideline (directional standards to implement policies and the zoning bylaw); and
–Policy References or related guidelines.
Performance Standard
Principle
Guideline
Policy Reference #
........
a. xxxxx
b. xxxxx
c. xxxxx
.........ObjectiveMandatory / Directional standardsDirectional Diagram / Supporting graphic
Figure 2: Structure of the document
9AECOM
Municipality of Clarington Urban Design and Sustainability Guidelines for Southeast Courtice
1.3 Related Documents and Guidelines
Legislation, plans and policies regulating
Land use planning and development in
the SECSP area include;
–Planning Act,
–Provincial Policy Statement (2020)
–Growth Plan for the Greater
Golden Horseshoe (2019),
–Regional Municipality of Durham’s
–
Other relevant documents providing
guidance & direction include,
–Priority Green - Green
Development Framework &
Implementation Plan -2015 (PG-
GDF),
–Clarington’s Green Community
Strategy – 2010 (CGCS) and
–It’s All Connected: Actions to
Foster a Community-Wide Culture
of Sustainability in Clarington
(2014)
Additionally, the Secondary Plan
policies and Urban and Sustainability
Guidelines for Southeast Courtice
are integrated with and respond to
adjacent neighbourhoods of Southwest
Courtice and the Employment Lands
and incorporate recommendations from
the Robinson Tooley Subwatershed
Study 2018 (SWS).
Figure 3: Related Documents and Guidelines
1.4 Background & Context
Clarington is a thriving municipality
in Durham Region where open space
essence of the community. Southeast
Courtice is a natural extension of
Courtice containing the headwaters
and tributaries of Tooley Creek and
Robinson Creek.
It is generally bounded by Robinson
Creek in the west, Highway 418 in the
east, Couritce Employment Lands to
the south, and the Highway 2 to the
north. The planned population for SEC
is 11,786 residents and approximately
4,875 units.
The lands to the north and west of
the SECSP Area are predominantly
low density residential, with a few
commercial properties.
Portions of the lands to the south of
the SECSP Area are contained within
the Courtice Urban Area and comprise
agricultural land use, com mercial and
employment areas, the Highway 401
lands and a proposed GO Station.
The lands to the east comprise a
narrow strip of non-farm estate
residential units & agricultural lands,
wooded areas and stream courses.
Existing community facilities within
SECSP include Paramedic Response
Station, Memorial Park, Hope
Fellowship Church, Family Worship &
Outreach Center and Courtice Flee
Market.
AECOM10
Municipality of Clarington Urban Design and Sustainability Guidelines for Southeast Courtice
Figure 4: Existing Context
11AECOM
Municipality of Clarington Urban Design and Sustainability Guidelines for Southeast Courtice
1.5 SEC Demonstration Plan
Vision for SEC
Southeast Courtice will be a healthy,
livable and sustainable community.
It will have its own identity, while
contributing to the larger Courtice and
Clarington communities.
Sustainability Objectives
a.
Urban Form
b. Create a Multimodal Community
c. Protect, maintain and enhance
Natural Heritage & Ecologogy
d. Create a sense of place and identity
through Landscape & Urban Design
e. Build for Everyone, provide a variety
of housing form, sizes and tenures
f. Foster a low carbon community,
resilient to the potential impacts of
climate change.
Establish a community structure for
development
Create a sense of place and identity
public realm
Provide a mix of uses and housing
the private realm.
Manage transitions and critical
built form and density.
Figure 5: SEC Demostration Plan
Legend
SECSP Boundary
Environmental Study Area
Environmental Protection Area
Environmental Constraint
Watercourse
SWF
Privately Owned, Publically Accessible Spaces (POPs)
Trails
Mid Block Connection
Laneways
Connectivity with Local Roads
Roads
Low Density Residential
Parks and Parkettes
High Density/Mixed Residential
Medium Density Residential
Municipality of Clarington Urban Design and Sustainability Guidelines for Southeast Courtice
12 AECOM
2. Community Structure
The Southeast Courtice Secondary Plan provides the framework for the
development of a new complete, compact, walkable, friendly and accessible
on the primary elements that structure the community to achieve key policy
high quality urban design. The following components play a vital role in structuring
the community;
Environmental Protection Areas
Neighbourhoods
Prominent Intersections
View Corridors
Development Blocks and Lots (Block Orientation)
Siting, Streetscape Variety, Built Form, Massing
Heritage & Cultural Resources
Municipality of Clarington Urban Design and Sustainability Guidelines for Southeast Courtice
13AECOM
Figure 6: Community Structure
Municipality of Clarington Urban Design and Sustainability Guidelines for Southeast Courtice
2.1 Environmental Protection Areas
development is permitted in these areas.
Areas with the moderate constraint overlay includes the Vegetation Protection Zone (VPZ) and recognize the existence of environmentally sensitive features and are
subject to future study, with the intent to determine the appropriate management and/or protection action, and the suitability of the underlying designation.
Principle
Protect, preserve and enhance
ecological diversity & environmental
stability while improving accessibility
and suitability for low-intensity
recreation.
Guidelines:
a. Locate parks and parkettes as an
extension to the EP, to create a
connected network of open space
and enhance natural features and
functions.
b. Promote a connected grid network
while respecting topography,
maintaining drainage patterns and
limiting water crossings.
c. Minimise back lotting onto the
EP; encourage trails for social
interaction and passive recreation;
Edge conditions and entrances
shall comply with CLOCA
regulations.
d. Linkages & Indigenous/ ecologically
complementary planting should
and enhanced. Extend greenery
through native plantings, that
contribute to the urban forest and a
vibrant and healthy tree canopy.
Figure 7: Environmental Protection Area
AECOM14
Environmental Protection Area
Environmental Protection Area
Active Frontage Buildings
Active Frontage Buildings
Environmental Protection Area
Environmental Protection Area
Environmental Protection Area
Primary View Corridors
Secondary View Corridors
Medium Density Corridor
Regional Corridor
Elementary School
School
Prominent Intersection (Primary Node)
Prominent Intersection (Secondary Node)
Gateways
5 Minute Walking Distance
Prominent Intersection (Primary Node)
Prominent Intersection (Secondary Node)
Gateways
Squares/Civic
Gateways
Squares/Civic
Public Art
Gateways
Public Square
Commercial / Retail
Prominent Buildings
Environmental Study Area
SECSP Boundary
SECSP Boundary
SECSP Boundary
SECSP Boundary
SECSP Boundary
Environmental Protection Area
Environmental Protection Area
Environmental Constraints Watercourse
Watercourse
Environmental Protection Area
Watercourse
Watercourse
Environmental Protection Area
Watercourse
Local Road
Connectivity with Local Roads
Laneway
Mid Block Connection
Watercourse
Watercourse
Watercourse
Watercourse
Environmental Constraint
Watercourse
SWF
Trails
Trails
Environmental Protection Area
Watercourse
SWF
Trails
Laneways
Roads
Roads
Roads
Roads
Roads
Roads
High Density/Mixed Residential
High Density/Mixed Residential
Medium Density Residential
Parks and Parkettes
Parks and Parkettes
Parks and Parkettes
Parks and Parkettes
Parks
Neighbourhoods
Arterial A
Arterial B
Arterial C
Collector Road
SECSP Boundary
SECSP Boundary
SECSP Boundary
SECSP Boundary
SECSP Boundary
Roads
Prominent Buildings
Roads
Roads
SECSP Boundary
Roads
SECSP Boundary
Roads
SECSP Boundary
Roads
Privately Owned, Publically Accessible Spaces (POPs)
Mid Block Connection
Environmental Protection Area
WatercourseSECSP Boundary
Roads POPs
Mid Block Connection
Laneways
Privately Owned, Publically Accessible Spaces (POPs)
Mid Block Connection
Parks and Parkettes
Neighbourhood Parks
Elementary SchoolSECSP Boundary
Roads Courtice Memorial Park
Elementary School
Elementary School
Elementary School
Elementary School
Elementary School
Watercourse
Watercourse
SECSP Boundary
Roads
SECSP Boundary
Roads
SECSP Boundary
Roads
Parkettes
Laneways
Privately Owned, Publically Accessible Spaces (POPs)
Mid Block Connection
Mixed Use / High Density Residential
High Density/Mixed Residential
Environmental Protection Area
WatercourseSECSP Boundary
Roads
Medium Density Residential
Medium Density Residential
Environmental Protection Area
Environmental Protection Area
Environmental Protection Area
Watercourse
Watercourse
Watercourse
SECSP Boundary
Roads
SECSP Boundary
Roads
SECSP Boundary
Roads
Prominent Intersection (Primary Node)
Prominent Intersection (Secondary Node)
Low Density Residential
Parks and Parkettes
Parks and Parkettes
Developable Land
Parkland
Parks and Parkettes
Neighbour Prime Agriculture Land
WatercourseSECSP Boundary
Roads
Developable Land
Neighbour Employment Area
Watercourse
WatercourseRoads
SECSP Boundary
SECSP Boundary
Watercourse
SECSP Boundary Developable Land
Area Subject to Environmental Study
Parks and Parkettes Watercourse
SECSP Boundary Developable Land Area Subject to Environmental Study
WatercourseSECSP Boundary
Roads
Developable Land
Neighbour Recommended PSEZ
Dedicated Cycle Lane
On-Street Bike Lane
Environmental Protection Area
Connectivity with Local Roads
Trails
Local Road
Connectivity with Local Roads
Privately Owned, Publically Accessible Spaces (POPs)
Mid Block Connection
Municipality of Clarington Urban Design and Sustainability Guidelines for Southeast Courtice
15AECOM
2.2
Clarington has been experiencing strong population growth and associated housing demand over the past several years. With an average annual growth rate of 1.7%, it
is expected that future demand for housing will be relatively strong over the coming 15 years with an expected 140,000 residents in the municipality by 2031.
The Secondary Plan provides a framework to manage this growth by directing the most dense of these forms to the Regional Corridor where it may be supported by
good access to commercial, serviced by future transit and create a vibrant public realm.
Principle
Encourage a compact urban form
and development pattern to provide
a mix of housing types and tenures
throughout the study area.
Guidelines:
a. Density Corridors
–The Regional Corridor is a primary
movement corridor for all modes
and shall be designed as a
community focal point supporting
mixed-use and higher density
building forms
–A major connection to the Town
Center, Trulls Road shall be
characterized by higher density
built forms, multi-modal transit
options and a well articulated
landscape, creating a sense of
place within the neighbourhood.
–High-quality urban design shall
be adopted to support a transit
oriented development approach
and created a vibrant public realm
and a complete community.
Figure 8:
Environmental Protection Area
Environmental Protection Area
Active Frontage Buildings
Active Frontage Buildings
Environmental Protection Area
Environmental Protection Area
Environmental Protection Area
Primary View Corridors
Secondary View Corridors
Medium Density Corridor
Regional Corridor
Elementary School
School
Prominent Intersection (Primary Node)
Prominent Intersection (Secondary Node)
Gateways
5 Minute Walking Distance
Prominent Intersection (Primary Node)
Prominent Intersection (Secondary Node)
Gateways
Squares/Civic
Gateways
Squares/Civic
Public Art
Gateways
Public Square
Commercial / Retail
Prominent Buildings
Environmental Study Area
SECSP Boundary
SECSP Boundary
SECSP Boundary
SECSP Boundary
SECSP Boundary
Environmental Protection Area
Environmental Protection Area
Environmental Constraints Watercourse
Watercourse
Environmental Protection Area
Watercourse
Watercourse
Environmental Protection Area
Watercourse
Local Road
Connectivity with Local Roads
Laneway
Mid Block Connection
Watercourse
Watercourse
Watercourse
Watercourse
Environmental Constraint
Watercourse
SWF
Trails
Trails
Environmental Protection Area
Watercourse
SWF
Trails
Laneways
Roads
Roads
Roads
Roads
Roads
Roads
High Density/Mixed Residential
High Density/Mixed Residential
Medium Density Residential
Parks and Parkettes
Parks and Parkettes
Parks and Parkettes
Parks and Parkettes
Parks
Neighbourhoods
Arterial A
Arterial B
Arterial C
Collector Road
SECSP Boundary
SECSP Boundary
SECSP Boundary
SECSP Boundary
SECSP Boundary
Roads
Prominent Buildings
Roads
Roads
SECSP Boundary
Roads
SECSP Boundary
Roads
SECSP Boundary
Roads
Privately Owned, Publically Accessible Spaces (POPs)
Mid Block Connection
Environmental Protection Area
WatercourseSECSP Boundary
Roads POPs
Mid Block Connection
Laneways
Privately Owned, Publically Accessible Spaces (POPs)
Mid Block Connection
Parks and Parkettes
Neighbourhood Parks
Elementary SchoolSECSP Boundary
Roads Courtice Memorial Park
Elementary School
Elementary School
Elementary School
Elementary School
Elementary School
Watercourse
Watercourse
SECSP Boundary
Roads
SECSP Boundary
Roads
SECSP Boundary
Roads
Parkettes
Laneways
Privately Owned, Publically Accessible Spaces (POPs)
Mid Block Connection
Mixed Use / High Density Residential
High Density/Mixed Residential
Environmental Protection Area
WatercourseSECSP Boundary
Roads
Medium Density Residential
Medium Density Residential
Environmental Protection Area
Environmental Protection Area
Environmental Protection Area
Watercourse
Watercourse
Watercourse
SECSP Boundary
Roads
SECSP Boundary
Roads
SECSP Boundary
Roads
Prominent Intersection (Primary Node)
Prominent Intersection (Secondary Node)
Low Density Residential
Parks and Parkettes
Parks and Parkettes
Developable Land
Parkland
Parks and Parkettes
Neighbour Prime Agriculture Land
WatercourseSECSP Boundary
Roads
Developable Land
Neighbour Employment Area
Watercourse
WatercourseRoads
SECSP Boundary
SECSP Boundary
Watercourse
SECSP Boundary Developable Land
Area Subject to Environmental Study
Parks and Parkettes Watercourse
SECSP Boundary Developable Land Area Subject to Environmental Study
WatercourseSECSP Boundary
Roads
Developable Land
Neighbour Recommended PSEZ
Dedicated Cycle Lane
On-Street Bike Lane
Environmental Protection Area
Connectivity with Local Roads
Trails
Local Road
Connectivity with Local Roads
Privately Owned, Publically Accessible Spaces (POPs)
Mid Block Connection
Municipality of Clarington Urban Design and Sustainability Guidelines for Southeast Courtice
GO
AECOM16
2.3 Prominent Intersections
Within Regional Corridors, the greatest heights and densities shall occur at Prominent Intersections and the nodes which surround them. These areas shall also have
the greatest concentration of commercial retail and service uses.
Planning for nodes should take into consideration their ability to support ridership by coordinating the intensity and mix of uses alongside existing or planned levels of
Principle
Create community focal points through
architectural and landscape treatments
to create a sense of place and identity
for the Courtice community.
Guidelines:
a. Primary Nodes shall be
characterised by high density built
form framing a public square and
articulated by high quality landscape
design, to create an identity and
community. It shall also feature the
primary concentration of retail and
service uses within the community.
b. Secondary Nodes shall be
characterised by high to medium
retail either framing a public square
or fronting a linear plaza. It shall be
articulated by high quality landscape
and a sense of place within the
community.
c.
Intersections as community
focal points will be emphasized
through building massing and
height, materiality, street furniture,
landscaping, and public art.
Figure 9: Prominent Intersections
Environmental Protection Area
Environmental Protection Area
Active Frontage Buildings
Active Frontage Buildings
Environmental Protection Area
Environmental Protection Area
Environmental Protection Area
Primary View Corridors
Secondary View Corridors
Medium Density Corridor
Regional Corridor
Elementary School
School
Prominent Intersection (Primary Node)
Prominent Intersection (Secondary Node)
Gateways
5 Minute Walking Distance
Prominent Intersection (Primary Node)
Prominent Intersection (Secondary Node)
Gateways
Squares/Civic
Gateways
Squares/Civic
Public Art
Gateways
Public Square
Commercial / Retail
Prominent Buildings
Environmental Study Area
SECSP Boundary
SECSP Boundary
SECSP Boundary
SECSP Boundary
SECSP Boundary
Environmental Protection Area
Environmental Protection Area
Environmental Constraints Watercourse
Watercourse
Environmental Protection Area
Watercourse
Watercourse
Environmental Protection Area
Watercourse
Local Road
Connectivity with Local Roads
Laneway
Mid Block Connection
Watercourse
Watercourse
Watercourse
Watercourse
Environmental Constraint
Watercourse
SWF
Trails
Trails
Environmental Protection Area
Watercourse
SWF
Trails
Laneways
Roads
Roads
Roads
Roads
Roads
Roads
High Density/Mixed Residential
High Density/Mixed Residential
Medium Density Residential
Parks and Parkettes
Parks and Parkettes
Parks and Parkettes
Parks and Parkettes
Parks
Neighbourhoods
Arterial A
Arterial B
Arterial C
Collector Road
SECSP Boundary
SECSP Boundary
SECSP Boundary
SECSP Boundary
SECSP Boundary
Roads
Prominent Buildings
Roads
Roads
SECSP Boundary
Roads
SECSP Boundary
Roads
SECSP Boundary
Roads
Privately Owned, Publically Accessible Spaces (POPs)
Mid Block Connection
Environmental Protection Area
WatercourseSECSP Boundary
Roads POPs
Mid Block Connection
Laneways
Privately Owned, Publically Accessible Spaces (POPs)
Mid Block Connection
Parks and Parkettes
Neighbourhood Parks
Elementary SchoolSECSP Boundary
Roads Courtice Memorial Park
Elementary School
Elementary School
Elementary School
Elementary School
Elementary School
Watercourse
Watercourse
SECSP Boundary
Roads
SECSP Boundary
Roads
SECSP Boundary
Roads
Parkettes
Laneways
Privately Owned, Publically Accessible Spaces (POPs)
Mid Block Connection
Mixed Use / High Density Residential
High Density/Mixed Residential
Environmental Protection Area
WatercourseSECSP Boundary
Roads
Medium Density Residential
Medium Density Residential
Environmental Protection Area
Environmental Protection Area
Environmental Protection Area
Watercourse
Watercourse
Watercourse
SECSP Boundary
Roads
SECSP Boundary
Roads
SECSP Boundary
Roads
Prominent Intersection (Primary Node)
Prominent Intersection (Secondary Node)
Low Density Residential
Parks and Parkettes
Parks and Parkettes
Developable Land
Parkland
Parks and Parkettes
Neighbour Prime Agriculture Land
WatercourseSECSP Boundary
Roads
Developable Land
Neighbour Employment Area
Watercourse
WatercourseRoads
SECSP Boundary
SECSP Boundary
Watercourse
SECSP Boundary Developable Land
Area Subject to Environmental Study
Parks and Parkettes Watercourse
SECSP Boundary Developable Land Area Subject to Environmental Study
WatercourseSECSP Boundary
Roads
Developable Land
Neighbour Recommended PSEZ
Dedicated Cycle Lane
On-Street Bike Lane
Environmental Protection Area
Connectivity with Local Roads
Trails
Local Road
Connectivity with Local Roads
Privately Owned, Publically Accessible Spaces (POPs)
Mid Block Connection
Municipality of Clarington Urban Design and Sustainability Guidelines for Southeast Courtice
2.4 View Corridors
a priority when designing sites and locating buildings.
Community Landmarks, Natural Heritage Landscapes and Parks and Open Space.
Principle
Establish view corridors to preserve
existing lines of sight and create
interest within the public realm.
Guidelines:
a. Views to adjacent natural features,
parks and open spaces shall be
maximised thorough public access,
terracing of adjacent buildings and
landscape design.
b. Where buildings frame view
corridors, the frontages of buildings
facing the corridor should be
programmed with active uses to
frame and enliven the street.
c. Consider topography and elevation
to identify locations for new view
termini or locations from which
views can be created.
d. Changes in grade over a lot should
be used to maximize views to
and from buildings and create
landmarks that are uniquely
integrated into the landscape and
existing topography.
Town
Center
17AECOM
Figure 10: View Corridors
Environmental Protection Area
Environmental Protection Area
Active Frontage Buildings
Active Frontage Buildings
Environmental Protection Area
Environmental Protection Area
Environmental Protection Area
Primary View Corridors
Secondary View Corridors
Medium Density Corridor
Regional Corridor
Elementary School
School
Prominent Intersection (Primary Node)
Prominent Intersection (Secondary Node)
Gateways
5 Minute Walking Distance
Prominent Intersection (Primary Node)
Prominent Intersection (Secondary Node)
Gateways
Squares/Civic
Gateways
Squares/Civic
Public Art
Gateways
Public Square
Commercial / Retail
Prominent Buildings
Environmental Study Area
SECSP Boundary
SECSP Boundary
SECSP Boundary
SECSP Boundary
SECSP Boundary
Environmental Protection Area
Environmental Protection Area
Environmental Constraints Watercourse
Watercourse
Environmental Protection Area
Watercourse
Watercourse
Environmental Protection Area
Watercourse
Local Road
Connectivity with Local Roads
Laneway
Mid Block Connection
Watercourse
Watercourse
Watercourse
Watercourse
Environmental Constraint
Watercourse
SWF
Trails
Trails
Environmental Protection Area
Watercourse
SWF
Trails
Laneways
Roads
Roads
Roads
Roads
Roads
Roads
High Density/Mixed Residential
High Density/Mixed Residential
Medium Density Residential
Parks and Parkettes
Parks and Parkettes
Parks and Parkettes
Parks and Parkettes
Parks
Neighbourhoods
Arterial A
Arterial B
Arterial C
Collector Road
SECSP Boundary
SECSP Boundary
SECSP Boundary
SECSP Boundary
SECSP Boundary
Roads
Prominent Buildings
Roads
Roads
SECSP Boundary
Roads
SECSP Boundary
Roads
SECSP Boundary
Roads
Privately Owned, Publically Accessible Spaces (POPs)
Mid Block Connection
Environmental Protection Area
WatercourseSECSP Boundary
Roads POPs
Mid Block Connection
Laneways
Privately Owned, Publically Accessible Spaces (POPs)
Mid Block Connection
Parks and Parkettes
Neighbourhood Parks
Elementary SchoolSECSP Boundary
Roads Courtice Memorial Park
Elementary School
Elementary School
Elementary School
Elementary School
Elementary School
Watercourse
Watercourse
SECSP Boundary
Roads
SECSP Boundary
Roads
SECSP Boundary
Roads
Parkettes
Laneways
Privately Owned, Publically Accessible Spaces (POPs)
Mid Block Connection
Mixed Use / High Density Residential
High Density/Mixed Residential
Environmental Protection Area
WatercourseSECSP Boundary
Roads
Medium Density Residential
Medium Density Residential
Environmental Protection Area
Environmental Protection Area
Environmental Protection Area
Watercourse
Watercourse
Watercourse
SECSP Boundary
Roads
SECSP Boundary
Roads
SECSP Boundary
Roads
Prominent Intersection (Primary Node)
Prominent Intersection (Secondary Node)
Low Density Residential
Parks and Parkettes
Parks and Parkettes
Developable Land
Parkland
Parks and Parkettes
Neighbour Prime Agriculture Land
WatercourseSECSP Boundary
Roads
Developable Land
Neighbour Employment Area
Watercourse
WatercourseRoads
SECSP Boundary
SECSP Boundary
Watercourse
SECSP Boundary Developable Land
Area Subject to Environmental Study
Parks and Parkettes Watercourse
SECSP Boundary Developable Land Area Subject to Environmental Study
WatercourseSECSP Boundary
Roads
Developable Land
Neighbour Recommended PSEZ
Dedicated Cycle Lane
On-Street Bike Lane
Environmental Protection Area
Connectivity with Local Roads
Trails
Local Road
Connectivity with Local Roads
Privately Owned, Publically Accessible Spaces (POPs)
Mid Block Connection
Municipality of Clarington Urban Design and Sustainability Guidelines for Southeast Courtice
2.5 Livable Neighbourhoods
and respect the natural environment.
Each neighbourhood will have a unique identity, a mix of uses & housing forms, access to daily retail and a neighbourhood park, within 400m (5 minutes walking
distance) to deliver a compact and complete community.
Principle
Create neighbourhoods that enhance
the living environment and promote
quality of life and social interaction.
Guidelines:
a.
to ensure that new development
does not negatively impact existing
stable neighbourhoods.
b. Encourage higher density built
forms along Arterial and Collector
Roads.
c. Connectivity and Permeability are
key to good neighbourhood design.
d. Limit neighbourhoods to no
more than 1km by 500-800m,
encouraging the decentralization
of retail, amenities and community
facilities.
e. Each neighbourhood shall
support a small neighbourhood
convenience stores across
developed with multi-unit
residential developments within the
Regional Corridor.
AECOM18
Figure 11: Livable Neighbourhoods
Environmental Protection Area
Environmental Protection Area
Active Frontage Buildings
Active Frontage Buildings
Environmental Protection Area
Environmental Protection Area
Environmental Protection Area
Primary View Corridors
Secondary View Corridors
Medium Density Corridor
Regional Corridor
Elementary School
School
Prominent Intersection (Primary Node)
Prominent Intersection (Secondary Node)
Gateways
5 Minute Walking Distance
Prominent Intersection (Primary Node)
Prominent Intersection (Secondary Node)
Gateways
Squares/Civic
Gateways
Squares/Civic
Public Art
Gateways
Public Square
Commercial / Retail
Prominent Buildings
Environmental Study Area
SECSP Boundary
SECSP Boundary
SECSP Boundary
SECSP Boundary
SECSP Boundary
Environmental Protection Area
Environmental Protection Area
Environmental Constraints Watercourse
Watercourse
Environmental Protection Area
Watercourse
Watercourse
Environmental Protection Area
Watercourse
Local Road
Connectivity with Local Roads
Laneway
Mid Block Connection
Watercourse
Watercourse
Watercourse
Watercourse
Environmental Constraint
Watercourse
SWF
Trails
Trails
Environmental Protection Area
Watercourse
SWF
Trails
Laneways
Roads
Roads
Roads
Roads
Roads
Roads
High Density/Mixed Residential
High Density/Mixed Residential
Medium Density Residential
Parks and Parkettes
Parks and Parkettes
Parks and Parkettes
Parks and Parkettes
Parks
Neighbourhoods
Arterial A
Arterial B
Arterial C
Collector Road
SECSP Boundary
SECSP Boundary
SECSP Boundary
SECSP Boundary
SECSP Boundary
Roads
Prominent Buildings
Roads
Roads
SECSP Boundary
Roads
SECSP Boundary
Roads
SECSP Boundary
Roads
Privately Owned, Publically Accessible Spaces (POPs)
Mid Block Connection
Environmental Protection Area
WatercourseSECSP Boundary
Roads POPs
Mid Block Connection
Laneways
Privately Owned, Publically Accessible Spaces (POPs)
Mid Block Connection
Parks and Parkettes
Neighbourhood Parks
Elementary SchoolSECSP Boundary
Roads Courtice Memorial Park
Elementary School
Elementary School
Elementary School
Elementary School
Elementary School
Watercourse
Watercourse
SECSP Boundary
Roads
SECSP Boundary
Roads
SECSP Boundary
Roads
Parkettes
Laneways
Privately Owned, Publically Accessible Spaces (POPs)
Mid Block Connection
Mixed Use / High Density Residential
High Density/Mixed Residential
Environmental Protection Area
WatercourseSECSP Boundary
Roads
Medium Density Residential
Medium Density Residential
Environmental Protection Area
Environmental Protection Area
Environmental Protection Area
Watercourse
Watercourse
Watercourse
SECSP Boundary
Roads
SECSP Boundary
Roads
SECSP Boundary
Roads
Prominent Intersection (Primary Node)
Prominent Intersection (Secondary Node)
Low Density Residential
Parks and Parkettes
Parks and Parkettes
Developable Land
Parkland
Parks and Parkettes
Neighbour Prime Agriculture Land
WatercourseSECSP Boundary
Roads
Developable Land
Neighbour Employment Area
Watercourse
WatercourseRoads
SECSP Boundary
SECSP Boundary
Watercourse
SECSP Boundary Developable Land
Area Subject to Environmental Study
Parks and Parkettes Watercourse
SECSP Boundary Developable Land Area Subject to Environmental Study
WatercourseSECSP Boundary
Roads
Developable Land
Neighbour Recommended PSEZ
Dedicated Cycle Lane
On-Street Bike Lane
Environmental Protection Area
Connectivity with Local Roads
Trails
Local Road
Connectivity with Local Roads
Privately Owned, Publically Accessible Spaces (POPs)
Mid Block Connection
Municipality of Clarington Urban Design and Sustainability Guidelines for Southeast Courtice
19AECOM
Principle
Block layouts shall support a variety of
lot sizes to ensure a diversity of housing
types, sizes, and designs.
Guidelines:
a. Block lengths should be no more than
200 metres.
b. Variation in block sizes are
encouraged where they facilitate
the development of a mix of building
typologies.
c. Provide simple and rectilinear lot
shapes so as not to limit design and
siting options. Corner lots should have
adequate width to permit appropriate
building setbacks from both streets.
d. Lots adjacent to neighbourhood
centres, public transport facilities, or
adjacent to higher amenity areas such
as parks and environmental features
should be designed to support higher
density development.
e. Mid-block pedestrian connections
shall be provided every 75m or after
every 5 townhouses to improve
permeability.
2.6 Development Blocks and Lots (Block Orientation)
large and small lot sizes and to promote a variety of development types, sizes and designs.
Figure 12: Development Blocks and Lots
Environmental Protection Area
Environmental Protection Area
Active Frontage Buildings
Active Frontage Buildings
Environmental Protection Area
Environmental Protection Area
Environmental Protection Area
Primary View Corridors
Secondary View Corridors
Medium Density Corridor
Regional Corridor
Elementary School
School
Prominent Intersection (Primary Node)
Prominent Intersection (Secondary Node)
Gateways
5 Minute Walking Distance
Prominent Intersection (Primary Node)
Prominent Intersection (Secondary Node)
Gateways
Squares/Civic
Gateways
Squares/Civic
Public Art
Gateways
Public Square
Commercial / Retail
Prominent Buildings
Environmental Study Area
SECSP Boundary
SECSP Boundary
SECSP Boundary
SECSP Boundary
SECSP Boundary
Environmental Protection Area
Environmental Protection Area
Environmental Constraints Watercourse
Watercourse
Environmental Protection Area
Watercourse
Watercourse
Environmental Protection Area
Watercourse
Local Road
Connectivity with Local Roads
Laneway
Mid Block Connection
Watercourse
Watercourse
Watercourse
Watercourse
Environmental Constraint
Watercourse
SWF
Trails
Trails
Environmental Protection Area
Watercourse
SWF
Trails
Laneways
Roads
Roads
Roads
Roads
Roads
Roads
High Density/Mixed Residential
High Density/Mixed Residential
Medium Density Residential
Parks and Parkettes
Parks and Parkettes
Parks and Parkettes
Parks and Parkettes
Parks
Neighbourhoods
Arterial A
Arterial B
Arterial C
Collector Road
SECSP Boundary
SECSP Boundary
SECSP Boundary
SECSP Boundary
SECSP Boundary
Roads
Prominent Buildings
Roads
Roads
SECSP Boundary
Roads
SECSP Boundary
Roads
SECSP Boundary
Roads
Privately Owned, Publically Accessible Spaces (POPs)
Mid Block Connection
Environmental Protection Area
WatercourseSECSP Boundary
Roads POPs
Mid Block Connection
Laneways
Privately Owned, Publically Accessible Spaces (POPs)
Mid Block Connection
Parks and Parkettes
Neighbourhood Parks
Elementary SchoolSECSP Boundary
Roads Courtice Memorial Park
Elementary School
Elementary School
Elementary School
Elementary School
Elementary
School
Watercourse
Watercourse
SECSP Boundary
Roads
SECSP Boundary
Roads
SECSP Boundary
Roads
Parkettes
Laneways
Privately Owned, Publically Accessible Spaces (POPs)
Mid Block Connection
Mixed Use / High Density Residential
High Density/Mixed Residential
Environmental Protection Area
WatercourseSECSP Boundary
Roads
Medium Density Residential
Medium Density Residential
Environmental Protection Area
Environmental Protection Area
Environmental Protection Area
Watercourse
Watercourse
Watercourse
SECSP Boundary
Roads
SECSP Boundary
Roads
SECSP Boundary
Roads
Prominent Intersection (Primary Node)
Prominent Intersection (Secondary Node)
Low Density Residential
Parks and Parkettes
Parks and Parkettes
Developable Land
Parkland
Parks and Parkettes
Neighbour Prime Agriculture Land
WatercourseSECSP Boundary
Roads
Developable Land
Neighbour Employment Area
Watercourse
WatercourseRoads
SECSP Boundary
SECSP Boundary
Watercourse
SECSP Boundary Developable Land
Area Subject to Environmental Study
Parks and Parkettes Watercourse
SECSP Boundary Developable Land Area Subject to Environmental Study
WatercourseSECSP Boundary
Roads
Developable Land
Neighbour Recommended PSEZ
Dedicated Cycle Lane
On-Street Bike Lane
Environmental Protection Area
Connectivity with Local Roads
Trails
Local Road
Connectivity with Local Roads
Privately Owned, Publically Accessible Spaces (POPs)
Mid Block Connection
Municipality of Clarington Urban Design and Sustainability Guidelines for Southeast Courtice
AECOM20
2.7 Siting Guidelines, Streetscape Variety, Built Form, Massing
The arrangement of buildings within the street block is a key component in creating an attractive streetscape.
The overall impression created by the grouping and massing of dwellings within a block will have a greater visual impact than the detailing of an individual dwelling. A
pedestrian- friendly experience will be achieved by incorporating controlled variation of height and massing appropriate in relation to the street.
Principle
Encourage a mix of building uses and
typologies to create interest and articulate
the public realm.
Guidelines:
a. Prominent building massing should be
provided at corners of major streets
b. Buildings should be oriented to, and
positioned along the street edge, with
directly address the street.
c.
transition from higher density to lower
density areas, abrupt changes in
massing shall be avoided.
d. Where possible, taller building
elements should be located at the
south and southeast side of the site
to reduce shadows cast on adjacent
properties.
e. Buildings should be located and
oriented to take advantage of the
to reduce heat gain, and to maximize
natural light within the building.
f. Minimise front yard setbacks to reduce
the cumulative separation distance
between buildings across rights-of-
way.
Figure 13: Sitting, Built Form & Massing
Environmental Protection Area
Environmental Protection Area
Active Frontage Buildings
Active Frontage Buildings
Environmental Protection Area
Environmental Protection Area
Environmental Protection Area
Primary View Corridors
Secondary View Corridors
Medium Density Corridor
Regional Corridor
Elementary School
School
Prominent Intersection (Primary Node)
Prominent Intersection (Secondary Node)
Gateways
5 Minute Walking Distance
Prominent Intersection (Primary Node)
Prominent Intersection (Secondary Node)
Gateways
Squares/Civic
Gateways
Squares/Civic
Public Art
Gateways
Public Square
Commercial / Retail
Prominent Buildings
Environmental Study Area
SECSP Boundary
SECSP Boundary
SECSP Boundary
SECSP Boundary
SECSP Boundary
Environmental Protection Area
Environmental Protection Area
Environmental Constraints Watercourse
Watercourse
Environmental Protection Area
Watercourse
Watercourse
Environmental Protection Area
Watercourse
Local Road
Connectivity with Local Roads
Laneway
Mid Block Connection
Watercourse
Watercourse
Watercourse
Watercourse
Environmental Constraint
Watercourse
SWF
Trails
Trails
Environmental Protection Area
Watercourse
SWF
Trails
Laneways
Roads
Roads
Roads
Roads
Roads
Roads
High Density/Mixed Residential
High Density/Mixed Residential
Medium Density Residential
Parks and Parkettes
Parks and Parkettes
Parks and Parkettes
Parks and Parkettes
Parks
Neighbourhoods
Arterial A
Arterial B
Arterial C
Collector Road
SECSP Boundary
SECSP Boundary
SECSP Boundary
SECSP Boundary
SECSP Boundary
Roads
Prominent Buildings
Roads
Roads
SECSP Boundary
Roads
SECSP Boundary
Roads
SECSP Boundary
Roads
Privately Owned, Publically Accessible Spaces (POPs)
Mid Block Connection
Environmental Protection Area
WatercourseSECSP Boundary
Roads POPs
Mid Block Connection
Laneways
Privately Owned, Publically Accessible Spaces (POPs)
Mid Block Connection
Parks and Parkettes
Neighbourhood Parks
Elementary SchoolSECSP Boundary
Roads Courtice Memorial Park
Elementary School
Elementary School
Elementary School
Elementary School
Elementary School
Watercourse
Watercourse
SECSP Boundary
Roads
SECSP Boundary
Roads
SECSP Boundary
Roads
Parkettes
Laneways
Privately Owned, Publically Accessible Spaces (POPs)
Mid Block Connection
Mixed Use / High Density Residential
High Density/Mixed Residential
Environmental Protection Area
WatercourseSECSP Boundary
Roads
Medium Density Residential
Medium Density Residential
Environmental Protection Area
Environmental Protection Area
Environmental Protection Area
Watercourse
Watercourse
Watercourse
SECSP Boundary
Roads
SECSP Boundary
Roads
SECSP Boundary
Roads
Prominent Intersection (Primary Node)
Prominent Intersection (Secondary Node)
Low Density Residential
Parks and Parkettes
Parks and Parkettes
Developable Land
Parkland
Parks and Parkettes
Neighbour Prime Agriculture Land
WatercourseSECSP Boundary
Roads
Developable Land
Neighbour Employment Area
Watercourse
WatercourseRoads
SECSP Boundary
SECSP Boundary
Watercourse
SECSP Boundary Developable Land
Area Subject to Environmental Study
Parks and Parkettes Watercourse
SECSP Boundary Developable Land Area Subject to Environmental Study
WatercourseSECSP Boundary
Roads
Developable Land
Neighbour Recommended PSEZ
Dedicated Cycle Lane
On-Street Bike Lane
Environmental Protection Area
Connectivity with Local Roads
Trails
Local Road
Connectivity with Local Roads
Privately Owned, Publically Accessible Spaces (POPs)
Mid Block Connection
Municipality of Clarington Urban Design and Sustainability Guidelines for Southeast Courtice
2.8 Built Heritage & Cultural Resources
case basis, the following provides guidance to ensure mitigating the possibility of damage to or functional interference with potential heritage resources is a priority.
Principle
Respond and enhance the attributes &
character of Heritage buildings and Cultural
landscapes.
Guidelines:
a. New development sites within
designated heritage properties shall be
consistent with the existing policies and
guidelines. Proposed built form shall be
sympathetic to the design characteristics
inauthentic or anachronistic.
b. Interpretive Plaques, pathway
markers, special features shall be
considered where applicable to recognize
buildings and sites. Planting adjacent to
cultural heritage landscapes shall use
native, non-invasive species.
c. Clearly visible, public entrances
to cultural heritage landscapes shall be
preserved and enhanced.
d. Site design and building placement
adjacent to cultural heritage landscapes
shall not disrupt the proposed
development and the cultural heritage
landscape where a heritage impact
assessment deems this form of
preservation necessary.
Policy # :
21AECOM
Figure 14: Built Heritage and Cultural Resources
Municipality of Clarington Urban Design and Sustainability Guidelines for Southeast Courtice
22 AECOM
3. Public Realm
most highly visible portion of our community. Its
in the pattern of the development and are
located to create interest and excitement within
the community.
The public realm within the Southeast Courtice Secondary Plan Area comprises two major components:
Access and Circulation
Network, and
Parks and Open Space
System
Access and circulation includes public roads,
laneways and privately owned, publicly
accessible spaces (POPs) with Parks and Open
Space including parks, parkettes, public squares,
natural heritage features, vegetation protection
zones and storm water management facilities.
Further, it is the intent of the Secondary Plan and
these Guidelines to link the major components
of the public realm with a connected system of
active transportation routes including sidewalks,
mid block connections, bicycle paths and trails,
providing transportation options to support a
healthy lifestyle and a sustainable future.
23AECOM
Municipality of Clarington Urban Design and Sustainability Guidelines for Southeast Courtice
Figure 15: SEC Public Realm
AECOM24
Municipality of Clarington Urban Design and Sustainability Guidelines for Southeast Courtice
3.1 Access and Circulation
Advocating a sustainable approach to development, the SP and UDSG provide the framework and guidance to implement a transit oriented development pattern
supported by Complete Streets.
neighbourhood and in particular to Arterial Roads, street-oriented built form, noise attenuation, and direct visual connectivity through established view corridors.
Principle
Reduce vehicle dependency, facilitate
for residents to travel in to, out of and
through neighbourhoods each day.
General Guidelines:
a. Create a modular, gridded
development pattern allowing
medium- and high-density
buildings to directly address
and access the street while
improving pedestrian and vehicular
circulation through and between
developments.
b. Pursue opportunities to connect
ending streets to adjacent or
new development, maximizing
permeability.
c. Use laneways with shared vehicular
entrances and driveways to
eliminate the need for driveways
and street facing garages,
d. Minimize watercourse crossings,
intrusion into natural heritage lands
and respond to existing cultural,
built heritage resources.
e. Use landscape elements to frame
views and for noise attenuation.
Figure 16: Access and Circulation
25AECOM
Municipality of Clarington Urban Design and Sustainability Guidelines for Southeast Courtice
3.2 Road Network
As directed by policy, street design will adopt a complete streets approach to ensure the needs and safety of all road users are considered and appropriately
accommodated (COP 3.2.2.3).
The SEC road network comprises Arterial Roads, Collector Roads, Local Roads and Laneways. While these streets serve an important functional role facilitating
movement, they are equally important as a place for people to meet and socialize.
All four streetscapes typologies are
comprised of the following general
components:
–The “Travel-way Realm”, whose
primary function is to ensure
vehicular movement,
–Service lanes where needed,
connectivity and activating the
street,
–Dedicated or shared bicycle lanes
providing for safe multi-modal travel
options, and
–The “Pedestrian Realm”, designed
to enhance the pedestrian
experience.
Hierarchy of Roads
–Arterial Roads
–Collector Roads
–Local Roads
–Laneways
The following guidelines conform to the
Region of Durham’s Arterial Corridor
Guidelines for Regional Corridors, while
providing further guidance to achieve
policies objectives of permeability,
legibility and a sense of place, a
Complete Street.
Figure 17: Road Network
Environmental Protection Area
Environmental Protection Area
Active Frontage Buildings
Active Frontage Buildings
Environmental Protection Area
Environmental Protection Area
Environmental Protection Area
Primary View Corridors
Secondary View Corridors
Medium Density Corridor
Regional Corridor
Elementary School
School
Prominent Intersection (Primary Node)
Prominent Intersection (Secondary Node)
Gateways
5 Minute Walking Distance
Prominent Intersection (Primary Node)
Prominent Intersection (Secondary Node)
Gateways
Squares/Civic
Gateways
Squares/Civic
Public Art
Gateways
Public Square
Commercial / Retail
Prominent Buildings
Environmental Study Area
SECSP Boundary
SECSP Boundary
SECSP Boundary
SECSP Boundary
SECSP Boundary
Environmental Protection Area
Environmental Protection Area
Environmental Constraints Watercourse
Watercourse
Environmental Protection Area
Watercourse
Watercourse
Environmental Protection Area
Watercourse
Local Road
Connectivity with Local Roads
Laneway
Mid Block Connection
Watercourse
Watercourse
Watercourse
Watercourse
Environmental Constraint
Watercourse
SWF
Trails
Trails
Environmental Protection Area
Watercourse
SWF
Trails
Laneways
Roads
Roads
Roads
Roads
Roads
Roads
High Density/Mixed Residential
High Density/Mixed Residential
Medium Density Residential
Parks and Parkettes
Parks and Parkettes
Parks and Parkettes
Parks and Parkettes
Parks
Neighbourhoods
Arterial A
Arterial B
Arterial C
Collector Road
SECSP Boundary
SECSP Boundary
SECSP Boundary
SECSP Boundary
SECSP Boundary
Roads
Prominent Buildings
Roads
Roads
SECSP Boundary
Roads
SECSP Boundary
Roads
SECSP Boundary
Roads
Privately Owned, Publically Accessible Spaces (POPs)
Mid Block Connection
Environmental Protection Area
WatercourseSECSP Boundary
Roads POPs
Mid Block Connection
Laneways
Privately Owned, Publically Accessible Spaces (POPs)
Mid Block Connection
Parks and Parkettes
Neighbourhood Parks
Elementary SchoolSECSP Boundary
Roads Courtice Memorial Park
Elementary School
Elementary School
Elementary School
Elementary School
Elementary School
Watercourse
Watercourse
SECSP Boundary
Roads
SECSP Boundary
Roads
SECSP Boundary
Roads
Parkettes
Laneways
Privately Owned, Publically Accessible Spaces (POPs)
Mid Block Connection
Mixed Use / High Density Residential
High Density/Mixed Residential
Environmental Protection Area
WatercourseSECSP Boundary
Roads
Medium Density Residential
Medium Density Residential
Environmental Protection Area
Environmental Protection Area
Environmental Protection Area
Watercourse
Watercourse
Watercourse
SECSP Boundary
Roads
SECSP Boundary
Roads
SECSP Boundary
Roads
Prominent Intersection (Primary Node)
Prominent Intersection (Secondary Node)
Low Density Residential
Parks and Parkettes
Parks and Parkettes
Developable Land
Parkland
Parks and Parkettes
Neighbour Prime Agriculture Land
WatercourseSECSP Boundary
Roads
Developable Land
Neighbour Employment Area
Watercourse
WatercourseRoads
SECSP Boundary
SECSP Boundary
Watercourse
SECSP Boundary Developable Land
Area Subject to Environmental Study
Parks and Parkettes Watercourse
SECSP Boundary Developable Land Area Subject to Environmental Study
WatercourseSECSP Boundary
Roads
Developable Land
Neighbour Recommended PSEZ
Dedicated Cycle Lane
On-Street Bike Lane
Environmental Protection Area
Connectivity with Local Roads
Trails
Local Road
Connectivity with Local Roads
Privately Owned, Publically Accessible Spaces (POPs)
Mid Block Connection
AECOM26
Municipality of Clarington Urban Design and Sustainability Guidelines for Southeast Courtice
Principle
Transform a vehicular dominated arterial into an urban corridor providing for ease
of access, orientation and safety for both pedestrians and vehicles.
Guidelines:
a. Travel Lanes: 4 through lanes, and comfort of the streetscape.
3.5m in width to enhance the safe Lighting should be downcast to
movement of larger vehicles such reduce light pollution. Where
as trucks and transit. required, it shall also accomodate a
b. Centre Median: A 4m wide central 2.5m wide on street parking. Time-
based restrictions may be applied
calming, aesthetics, geometric
design considerations, and access clearing requirements.
control.f. Bicycle infrastructure: Due to the
c. Boulevard (Side Median): 2.5m
wide landscaped boulevards are wide segregated bicycle lanes with
encouraged in urban areas with
coloured street trees situated every provided.
9.0m. Transit infrastructure such as g. Sidewalks: Sidewalks shall be
bus shelters can be accomodated provided on both sides of the street
within the side medians.and be a minimum of 1.8m wide
d. Service Road: Manage through to accommodate persons using
mobility aids, walkers, or persons
land uses through the provision of a accompanied by guide dogs.
3.5m wide service lane.h. Buildings shall have entries facing
e. Multi-purpose Strip: 3.1m wide the street and use architectural
detailing and landscape features to
zone shall feature street trees address the road frontage. Reverse
and lighting to enhance the safety frontage development shall not be
permitted.
3.2.1 Type A Arterial (45m ROW) - Courtice Road & Bloor Street (Multi-Way)
and transit. A key design objective for Arterial Roads is to balance safety, visual amenity and pedestrianism, with a wide variety of functions including to serve as a large
Recognized as a driver to achieve a more sustainable, compact urban form, Courtice Road shall be designed to support transit oriented development and permeability Property BoundaryProperty BoundaryProperty BoundaryProperty BoundaryCentral Planted Median with turning lane at intersectionsCentral Planted Median with turning lane at intersectionsFigure 18: Arterial A (Frontage Road/ Multi-way)SidewalkSidewalkService lane with on-street parkingService lane with on-street parking
3.2.2 Arterial Roads: Type B Arterial - Trulls Road (Local Corridor) - 30m ROW
comfort and safety of pedestrians and cyclists.
The guidelines below acknowledges the growing role of an active transportation network and its contribution to the creation of a vibrant public realm. Given the role of
Principle
Guidelines:
a. Travel Lanes: The total number
of through lanes will be 4, with a
turning lane at intersections. Travel
lanes should not exceed 3.5m in
width. Wide travel lanes are required
to ensure the safe movement of
larger vehicles such as trucks and
transit.
b. Multi-purpose strip: 3.2m wide
landscape boulevard and furnishing
zone shall feature coloured street
trees at 9m centers, street furniture,
signage and lighting to enhance
the safety and comfort of the
streetscape. Lighting shall be
downcast to reduce light pollution.
Transit infrastructure such as bus
shelters can be accomodated
within this boulevard.
c. Bicycle infrastructure: Due to the
2 way dedicated bicycle lane with
signage and/ or pavement markings
shall be provided on both sides of
the street.
d. Sidewalks: Sidewalks shall be
provided on both sides of the street
and be a minimum of 1.8m wide
to accommodate persons using
mobility aids, walkers, or persons
accompanied by guide dogs. A 1.1m
wide green strip shall be provided
between bicycle lane and sidewalk.
e. High and medium density forms
including apartments and
townhouses shall present façades,
entrances and at-grade animating
uses with architectural detailing
and landscape features that
address the road frontage. Reverse
frontage development shall not be
permitted.
f. Lighting: Appropriate road
scale lighting shall be provided
to contribute to the safety and
comfort of the streetscape.
Lighting should be downcast to
reduce light pollution. Pedestrian
scale lighting shall be provided
within the green strip to animate
and create a safe and comfortable
pedestrian experience.
27AECOM
Municipality of Clarington Urban Design and Sustainability Guidelines for Southeast Courtice
Figure 19: Arterial B
Property BoundaryProperty BoundarySidewalkTownhouse DevelopmentTownhouse DevelopmentSidewalkProperty BoundaryProperty Boundary
3.2.3 Arterial Roads: Type C Arterial - Meadowglade Road & Hancock Road (26m ROW)
short distances.
Running along the edge of neighbourhoods, these roads are intended to support medium density housing forms that relate to the street and contribute to the creation
of a vibrant and active public realm. These roads shall be designed to support multi-modal transit within Southeast Courtice.
Principle
responding to and activating the public realm.
Guidelines:
a. Travel Lanes: Two through lanes e. Sidewalks: Sidewalks shall be
with a turning lane at intersections. provided on both sides of the street
Travel lanes should not exceed and be a minimum of 1.8m wide
3.5m in width. to accommodate persons using
b. Centre Median: Provide a 4m wide mobility aids, walkers, or persons
accompanied by guide dogs. A
aesthetics, geometric design 1.2m wide green strip shall be
considerations & access control.provided between bicycle lane and
sidewalk.c. Multi-purpose strip: 2.5m wide
landscape boulevard and furnishing f. Medium density housing shall
zone shall feature street trees at 9m present a façade with architectural
centers, street furniture, signage detailing and landscape features
and lighting to enhance the safety that addresses the road frontage.
and comfort of the streetscape. Reverse frontage development
Lighting shall be downcast to shall not be permitted.
reduce light pollution. Transit g. Lighting: Appropriate road
infrastructure such as bus shelters scale lighting shall be provided
can be accomodated within the to contribute to the safety and
boulevard.comfort of the streetscape.
d. Bicycle infrastructure: Due to the Lighting should be downcast to
reduce light pollution. Pedestrian
2 way dedicated bicycle lane with scale lighting shall be provided
signage and/ or pavement markings within the green strip to animate
shall be provided on both sides of and create a safe and comfortable
the street. pedestrian experience.Property BoundaryProperty BoundarySidewalkSidewalkProperty BoundaryProperty BoundaryCentral Planted Median with turning lane at intersectionsCentral Planted Median with turning lane at intersectionsAECOM28
Municipality of Clarington Urban Design and Sustainability Guidelines for Southeast Courtice
Figure 20: Arterial C
3.2.4 Collector Roads (23m ROW)
provide suitable locations for community amenities such as schools and park space accessible to the community.
Collector roads should have a high level of streetscaping, emphasizing the character and identity of the community. In addition, collector roads will act as ‘green’
linkages with the parks and open space system, therefore emphasis should be placed on creating safe and pedestrian focused environments.
Principle
Create through connections to support walkability and active transportation
throughout the community.
Guidelines:
a. Travel Lanes: The total number of 2
through lanes, with a turning lane at
junctions and intersections. Travel
lanes should not exceed 3.5m in
width. Wide travel lanes are required
to ensure the safe movement of
larger vehicles such as trucks,
buses, and transit.
b. Bicycle infrastructure: Due to the
wide, 2 way on-street bicycle lanes
signage and/or pavement markings
shall be provided on both sides of
the street.
c. Multi-purpose strip: 2.6m wide
landscape boulevard and furnishing
zone shall feature street trees at 9m
centers, street furniture, signage
and lighting to enhance the safety
and comfort of the streetscape.
Lighting shall be downcast to
reduce light pollution. Transit
infrastructure such as bus shelters
can be accomodated within this
boulevard.
d. Sidewalks: Sidewalks shall be
adjacent to property boundaries
and shall be provided on both sides
of the street at a minimum of 1.8m
wide to accommodate persons
using mobility aids, walkers, or
persons accompanied by guide
dogs. .
e. Medium density housing forms shall
present a façade with architectural
detailing and landscape features
that addresses the road frontage.
Reverse frontage development
shall not be permitted.
f. Lighting: Appropriate road
scale lighting shall be provided
to contribute to the safety and
comfort of the streetscape.
Lighting should be downcast to
reduce light pollution. Pedestrian
scale lighting shall be provided
within the green strip to animate
and create a safe and comfortable
pedestrian experience.
29AECOM
Municipality of Clarington Urban Design and Sustainability Guidelines for Southeast Courtice
SidewalkSidewalkProperty BoundaryProperty BoundaryProperty BoundaryProperty BoundaryCentral Planted Median with turning lane at intersectionsCentral Planted Median with turning lane at intersectionsFigure 21: Collector Road
3.2.5 Local Roads (20m ROW)
Local Roads provide direct and local access to individual sites, connect to Collector Roads and link with public open spaces.
Principle
Local Streets should be designed to create ‘intimate’ pedestrian-scaled
streetscapes that promote walkability and residential activities but discourage
minimum requirements wherever possible.
Guidelines:
a. Lanes: 2 through lanes with a 2.25m
wide ‘on-street’ parking lane on
either side; Travel lanes shall not
exceed 3.25m in width.
b. The parking lane shall have
permeable paving and be broken
by landscaped curb extensions,
featuring coloured street trees.
c. A sidewalk of 2m wide should be
provided on both sides of the street
between the parking lane and the
planted zone.
d.
bicycle movement on the main
carriageway.
e.
landscape zone featuring street
trees shall be provided between the
sidewalk and the private property
boundary. It could serve as a utility
corridor for locating underground
services within the street right-of-
way.
f. Medium and low density housing
forms abutting local roads shall
present a façade with architectural
detailing and landscape features
that address the road frontage.
g. Lighting: Appropriate road
scale lighting shall be provided
to contribute to the safety and
comfort of the streetscape.
Lighting should be downcast to
reduce light pollution.
h. The east-west Local Road
connecting Granville Drive
and Farmington Drive, north of
Bloor Street, shall perform as
a Collector Road to provide a
connection between residential
neighbourhoods and community
uses. There shall be an emphasis
on creating safe and pedestrian
focused environments.
AECOM30
Municipality of Clarington Urban Design and Sustainability Guidelines for Southeast Courtice
Property BoundaryProperty BoundaryProperty BoundaryProperty BoundaryDetached / SEmi Detached housingDetached / SEmi Detached housingDetached / SEmi Detached housingDetached / SEmi Detached housingSidewalkSidewalkStreet Parking Street Parking Figure 22: Local Roads
3.2.6 Laneways (8.5m ROW)
Rear Laneways promote pedestrian-oriented streetscapes and are encouraged throughout the community. Laneway development supports safe and attractive
streetscapes, with a low number of curb-cuts, and the maximum exposure of habitable frontage.
Laneways shall be provided to eliminate the need for driveways and street facing garages.
Principle
Encourage the use of rear access laneways that facilitates the creation of a more
intimate and engaging, pedestrian friendly local street.
Guidelines:
a. Laneways should be prioritized
where development fronts onto
an Arterial or Collector Road
network. Also, laneways should be
considered to provide access to
parking on small lots - particularly
narrow lots, and in retail/commercial
areas.
b. Laneways shall be no greater than
8.5m with a 6.0m wide two-way
travel lane and a 1.25m setback on
either side to the adjacent garage
wall.
c. Laneways should be graded to
as they would not be plowed by
municipal services. Areas at the
end of laneways should be set aside
for snow piling.
d. Laneways shall incorporate LID
such as permeable paving where
durable surfaces.
e. Access to servicing and loading
areas should be provided from rear
laneways.
31AECOM
Municipality of Clarington Urban Design and Sustainability Guidelines for Southeast Courtice
LanewayLanewayTownhouseDetached / Semi detached Local RoadLocal RoadLocal Road
Local Road
Figure 23: Laneways
3.2.7 On-Street Parking
As recognized by the Region of Durham’s Arterial Corridor Guidelines, on-street parking can play a vital role in the creation of a vibrant and active public realm.
permitting parking to be provided on street. On-street parking is also a useful addition to residential streets and can serve as visitor parking.
Principle
thereby enhancing pedestrian safety and improving the visibility of local retail.
Guidelines:
a. On-street parking should be
provided wherever possible and in
particular at mixed use locations.
While dedicated lanes are provided
along Arterial A and local roads, on
street parking may be incorporated
within the landscaped boulevards
of Arterials B, C and Collectors.
b. Promote on-street parking along
buildings directly accessible from
the corridor to promote retail
and business uses and shield
c. For clear visibility, parking shall
not be permitted adjacent to
crosswalks.
d. Wherever possible, parking areas
should be designed in small
sections and include permeable
paving, lighting, substantial
landscaping, to break up expanses
of parking and to provide places for
pedestrian connections.
e. Diagonal parking shall not be
permitted.
f. Consider metering on-street
parking to promote short-term
parking.
Development Block
AECOM32
Municipality of Clarington Urban Design and Sustainability Guidelines for Southeast Courtice
Figure 24: On-Street Parking - Typical Layout
Figure 25: On-Street Parking
33AECOM
Municipality of Clarington Urban Design and Sustainability Guidelines for Southeast Courtice
Principle
Use green streets to contribute to urban
Guidelines:
a. All public Righ-of-Ways are encouraged to
promote the use of Green Infrastructure
including;
–
native soil while it is being conveyed from
source areas to an end-of-pipe facility or
receiving waterbody.
– Permeable pavements including permeable
interlocking concrete pavers (PICP), porous
PICP, turf stones and plastic grids, porous
concrete and porous asphalt, that create a
into the sub-base.
b. 1.5 to 2.0m sidewalks with space on both
sides to accommodate a double row of
trees.
c. Green Streets can accommodate
underground utilities as well as emergency
access.
3.2.8 Green Streets
A Green Street is a road or street that incorporates green infrastructure, which includes natural and human-made elements such as trees, green walls, and low impact
development (LID) stormwater infrastructure that provide ecological and hydrological functions and processes.
Green Streets serve a special function in the community in that they provide for increased permeability and pedestrian connections within the community. They are
meant to encourage pedestrian travel through neighbourhoods, connections to open space features, and are desirable features in themselves. They are unpaved right-
of-ways, with building encouraged to front onto them.
Figure 26: Green Street Strategies
3.3 Active Transportation Network
AECOM34
Municipality of Clarington Urban Design and Sustainability Guidelines for Southeast Courtice
adoption of active modes and provide important connections.
Active transportation refers to all human powered forms of transportation, in particular walking and cycling. It includes the use of mobility aids such as wheel chairs, and
can also encompass other active transport variations such as in-line skating, skateboarding, and cross-country skiing. Active transportation modes can also form key
Figure 27: Active Transportation Network Principle
The active transportation network is
the foundation to creating a community
that provides dedicated infrastructure
to support the use of active modes for
all types of users.
Guidelines:
a. Infrastructure must prompt safety
and visibility of vulnerable road
users.
b. Maintain and improve the
connections of sidewalks and multi-
use paths to major destinations,
neighbourhood facilities and transit
stops in order to encourage year-
round usage;
c.
that directs users to and from key
locations;
d. Provide mid-block connections
every 75-100m in particular through
the high and medium density blocks
of the Regional Corridor to support
increased network connectivity,
provide relief to continuous
facades, establish secondary view
corridors connecting prominent
arterial or collector roads.
Environmental Protection AreaEnvironmental Protection AreaActive Frontage BuildingsActive Frontage Buildings Environmental Protection AreaEnvironmental Protection Area Environmental Protection AreaPrimary View Corridors Secondary View CorridorsMedium Density CorridorRegional CorridorElementary SchoolSchoolProminent Intersection (Primary Node)Prominent Intersection (Secondary Node)Gateways 5 Minute Walking DistanceProminent Intersection (Primary Node)Prominent Intersection (Secondary Node)GatewaysSquares/CivicGatewaysSquares/Civic Public Art
Gateways
Public Square
Commercial / RetailProminent BuildingsEnvironmental Study AreaSECSP BoundarySECSP BoundarySECSP BoundarySECSP BoundarySECSP BoundaryEnvironmental Protection AreaEnvironmental Protection Area Environmental Constraints WatercourseWatercourseEnvironmental Protection AreaWatercourseWatercourseEnvironmental Protection Area WatercourseLocal RoadConnectivity with Local RoadsLaneway Mid Block ConnectionWatercourseWatercourseWatercourseWatercourseEnvironmental ConstraintWatercourseSWF TrailsTrails
Environmental Protection Area
WatercourseSWFTrailsLanewaysRoadsRoadsRoadsRoadsRoadsRoadsHigh Density/Mixed Residential High Density/Mixed ResidentialMedium Density Residential Parks and ParkettesParks and ParkettesParks and Parkettes Parks and ParkettesParks NeighbourhoodsArterial A Arterial BArterial CCollector RoadSECSP BoundarySECSP BoundarySECSP BoundarySECSP BoundarySECSP BoundaryRoads Prominent BuildingsRoadsRoadsSECSP BoundaryRoadsSECSP BoundaryRoadsSECSP BoundaryRoads Privately Owned, Publically Accessible Spaces (POPs)Mid Block ConnectionEnvironmental Protection Area WatercourseSECSP BoundaryRoads POPsMid Block ConnectionLanewaysPrivately Owned, Publically Accessible Spaces (POPs)Mid Block ConnectionParks and ParkettesNeighbourhood Parks
Elementary SchoolSECSP Boundary
Roads Courtice Memorial Park
Elementary School
Elementary School
Elementary School
Elementary School
Elementary School
Watercourse
Watercourse
SECSP Boundary
Roads
SECSP Boundary
Roads
SECSP Boundary
Roads
Parkettes
Laneways Privately Owned, Publically Accessible Spaces (POPs)Mid Block Connection
Mixed Use / High Density Residential
High Density/Mixed Residential
Environmental Protection Area
WatercourseSECSP Boundary
Roads
Medium Density Residential
Medium Density Residential
Environmental Protection Area
Environmental Protection Area
Environmental Protection Area
Watercourse
Watercourse
Watercourse
SECSP Boundary
Roads
SECSP Boundary
Roads
SECSP Boundary
Roads
Prominent Intersection (Primary Node)
Prominent Intersection (Secondary Node)
Low Density Residential
Parks and Parkettes
Parks and Parkettes
Developable Land
Parkland
Parks and Parkettes
Neighbour Prime Agriculture Land
WatercourseSECSP Boundary
Roads
Developable Land
Neighbour Employment Area
Watercourse
WatercourseRoads
SECSP Boundary
SECSP Boundary
Watercourse
SECSP Boundary Developable Land
Area Subject to Environmental Study
Parks and Parkettes Watercourse
SECSP Boundary Developable Land Area Subject to Environmental Study
WatercourseSECSP Boundary
Roads
Developable Land
Neighbour Recommended PSEZ
Dedicated Cycle Lane
On-Street Bike Lane
Environmental Protection Area
Connectivity with Local Roads
Trails
Local Road
Connectivity with Local Roads
Privately Owned, Publically Accessible Spaces (POPs)
Mid Block Connection
3.3.1 Pedestrian Connections
Exterior development of the site should create comfortable and safe pedestrian connections to support walkability and a healthy neighbourhood. Sidewalks, Mid-block
connections and crossings are important features of the pedestrian environment that contribute to creating an active, legible and safe community.
a. Sidewalk
Principle
Pedestrian connections from the public road right-of-
way to adjacent public open spaces/natural features
should be provided where possible.
Guidelines:
a. As a general rule, sidewalks should be provided on
both sides of the street.
b. Sidewalk shall be a minimum of 1.5m wide,
consistant across blocks and connect with
adjoining recreational trail networks.
c. For sidewalks on busy streets, textured edges
and sound assisted crosswalks should be used to
assist the visually impaired.
a. Mid-block Connections
Principle
Well designed mid-block connections create a
sense of place and enhance walkability within the
neighbourhood.
Guidelines:
a. Minimum 3m wide walkway with a landscaped
buildings, blank walls are not permitted.
b. Barrier free with appropriate signage, they should
connect to the larger pedestrian network.
c. Grade-level commercial building uses are
encouraged to wrap around the building to
address the mid-block connection. Spill-out
spaces can be considered where appropriate.
a. Crossings
Principle
Crosswalks ensure continuity of the sidewalk
network. High quality crosswalks must be provided
for safety and to promote walking.
Guidelines:
a. Crosswalks should be continuous and connected
to adjacent sidewalks. Crosswalks should be
clearly designated for safety, with appropriate
surface markings or variation in construction
material, and signage
b. Gateway and major commercial area intersections
should use feature paving to signify the priority of
pedestrian crossings at these locations.
c. Crossings shall be designed to AODA standards.
35AECOM
Municipality of Clarington Urban Design and Sustainability Guidelines for Southeast Courtice
Figure 28: Sidewalk Figure 29: Mid-Block Connection Figure 30: Street Crossing
3.3.2 Cycling Network
and demand. The design of cycle infrastructure should consider the type of cyclists that will use it, how the routes interact with other users, opportunities to improve
safety and how maintenance will be provided. Furnishings should not obstruct pedestrian, vehicle or cyclist circulation and sight lines or hinder sidewalk/ bike path
maintenance and snow removal.
a. Dedicated and/or Segregated Bicycle Path b. On-Street Bicycle Path
Figure 31: Dedicated Bicycle Path Figure 32: Dedicated Bicycle Path
Principle
Provide for safe travel alternatives along arterials.
Guidelines:
a. 2.1m wide, two way dedicated and/(green) shall be used to distinguish
or segregated bicycle lanes shall be the bike lane from the sidewalk
d. The route shall have the required
b. Adjacent landscape boulevards signage and white lane markings to
with street trees shall be provided meet existing standards.
for shade and comfort.
c. Where not separated by a planting
zone, bollards shall be used to
mark the edge and coloured paving
Principle
Provide for safe travel alternatives along collectors.
Guidelines:
a. 1.8m wide, single lane on-street from the carriageway, with white
cycling infrastructure shall be lane markings to meet existing
standards.
areas.
b. Adjacent landscape boulevards
with street trees shall be provided
for shade and comfort.
c. Coloured paving (green) shall be
used to distinguish the bike lane
AECOM36
Municipality of Clarington Urban Design and Sustainability Guidelines for Southeast Courtice
3.3.3 Trails
As described in the Secondary Plan, Environmental Protection Areas serve as the backbone of network of parks, trails and open spaces. Trails contribute to
realising the amenity of the natural heritage system in terms of low-intensity recreation and active transportation as well as augmenting connectivity and pedestrian
a. Primary Trails
Principle
Primary Trails are paved multi-use trails to provide a variety of recreational uses
Guidelines:
a. The design of the recreational trail
nature of the type of open space it
occupies.
b. Primary Trails shall be barrier
free, have multiple access points,
clearly demarcated entrances with
gateway features such as public art
where appropriate.
c. Washrooms, parking, furniture
including benches and bins,
signage, interpretive facilities
and lighting shall be provided to
enhance safety and support use by
all ages and abilities.
d. The trail shall be 3-4m wide to allow
for two way cyclist or pedestrian
passage.
a. Secondary Trails
Principle
Secondary Trails provide access to natural areas such as creek edges, woodlots
or wetlands and are intended to keep users on a designated path to minimize
disruption to the surrounding landscape.
Guidelines:
a. Supporting the integration of
stormwater facilities with parkland,
secondary trails shall be the
primary connection providing
access and supporting passive
recreation opportunities in these
environments.
b. Secondary trails are narrower than
primary trails and usually have a
surface of crushed aggregate or
woodchip.
c. Trails shall be a minimum of 1.8m
wide to provide barrier free access.
d. Paved surfaces shall not be
permitted, limiting vehicular
access and prioirtising pedestrian
and cycling movement within the
community.
Figure 33: Primary Trail Figure 34: Secondary Trail
37AECOM
Municipality of Clarington Urban Design and Sustainability Guidelines for Southeast Courtice
3.4 Transit Network
Figure 35: Transit Network
AECOM38
Municipality of Clarington Urban Design and Sustainability Guidelines for Southeast Courtice
A transit oriented development approach has been adopted to promote the creation of a sustainable and complete community within Southeast Courtice. As such,
development is planned to accommodate compact typologies and often incorporate features to encourage multi-modal transportation.
The SEC Secondary Plan and UDSG have provided the framework and guidance to achieve a development pattern with approximately all residents within a 5 minute
walking distance of a transit stop. Feasibility shall be determined through further study and as the community develops. Sidewalks and bicycle networks support last
mile connectivity.
Principle
Encourage transit oriented development
for a sustainable future.
Guidelines:
a. Highway 2, Courtice Road, Bloor Street and
Trulls Road are encouraged to serve as
primary Transit Corridors supporting rapid
regional travel.
b. Meadowglade Road and Hancock Road are
encouraged as Secondary Transit routes
to provide sustainable travel options to all
users.
c. Sidewalks should connect directly to transit
shelters to encourage active transit use and
ensure safety and convenience.
d. Transit stops should be located in
close proximity to activity nodes and
building entrances and on the far side of
commuter safety.
e. Transit stops should include a shelter
for weather protection and include
basic amenities, including seating, trash
receptacles, lighting, and route information.
Environmental Protection Area
Environmental Protection Area
Active Frontage Buildings
Active Frontage Buildings
Environmental Protection Area
Environmental Protection Area
Environmental Protection Area
Primary View Corridors
Secondary View Corridors
Medium Density CorridorRegional Corridor
Elementary School
School
Prominent Intersection (Primary Node)
Prominent Intersection (Secondary Node)
Gateways
5 Minute Walking Distance
Prominent Intersection (Primary Node)
Prominent Intersection (Secondary Node)
Gateways
Squares/Civic
Gateways
Squares/Civic
Public Art
Gateways
Public Square
Commercial / Retail
Prominent Buildings
Environmental Study AreaSECSP BoundarySECSP Boundary
SECSP Boundary
SECSP Boundary
SECSP Boundary
Environmental Protection Area
Environmental Protection Area
Environmental Constraints Watercourse
Watercourse
Environmental Protection Area
Watercourse
Watercourse
Environmental Protection Area
Watercourse
Local Road
Connectivity with Local Roads
Laneway
Mid Block Connection
Watercourse
Watercourse
Watercourse
Watercourse
Environmental Constraint
Watercourse
SWF
Trails
Trails
Environmental Protection Area
Watercourse
SWF
Trails
Laneways
Roads
Roads
Roads
RoadsRoads
Roads
High Density/Mixed Residential
High Density/Mixed Residential
Medium Density Residential
Parks and Parkettes
Parks and Parkettes
Parks and Parkettes
Parks and Parkettes
Parks
Neighbourhoods
Arterial A
Arterial B
Arterial C
Collector Road
SECSP Boundary
SECSP Boundary
SECSP Boundary
SECSP Boundary
SECSP Boundary
Roads
Prominent Buildings
Roads
Roads
SECSP Boundary
Roads
SECSP Boundary
Roads
SECSP Boundary
Roads
Privately Owned, Publically Accessible Spaces (POPs)
Mid Block Connection
Environmental Protection Area
WatercourseSECSP Boundary
Roads POPs
Mid Block Connection
Laneways
Privately Owned, Publically Accessible Spaces (POPs)
Mid Block Connection
Parks and Parkettes
Neighbourhood Parks
Elementary SchoolSECSP Boundary
Roads Courtice Memorial Park
Elementary School
Elementary School
Elementary School
Elementary School
Elementary School
Watercourse
Watercourse
SECSP Boundary
Roads
SECSP Boundary
Roads
SECSP Boundary
Roads
Parkettes
Laneways
Privately Owned, Publically Accessible Spaces (POPs)
Mid Block Connection
Mixed Use / High Density Residential
High Density/Mixed Residential
Environmental Protection Area
WatercourseSECSP Boundary
Roads
Medium Density Residential
Medium Density Residential
Environmental Protection Area
Environmental Protection Area
Environmental Protection Area
Watercourse
Watercourse
Watercourse
SECSP Boundary
Roads
SECSP Boundary
Roads
SECSP Boundary
Roads
Prominent Intersection (Primary Node)
Prominent Intersection (Secondary Node)
Low Density Residential
Parks and Parkettes
Parks and Parkettes
Developable Land
Parkland
Parks and Parkettes
Neighbour Prime Agriculture Land
WatercourseSECSP Boundary
Roads
Developable Land
Neighbour Employment Area
Watercourse
WatercourseRoads
SECSP Boundary
SECSP Boundary
Watercourse
SECSP Boundary Developable Land
Area Subject to Environmental Study
Parks and Parkettes Watercourse
SECSP Boundary Developable Land Area Subject to Environmental Study
WatercourseSECSP Boundary
Roads
Developable Land
Neighbour Recommended PSEZ
Dedicated Cycle Lane
On-Street Bike Lane
Environmental Protection Area
Connectivity with Local Roads
Trails
Local Road
Connectivity with Local Roads
Privately Owned, Publically Accessible Spaces (POPs)
Mid Block Connection
39AECOM
Municipality of Clarington Urban Design and Sustainability Guidelines for Southeast Courtice
This page is intentionally left blank
3.5 Parks & Open Spaces
SECSP Boundary Environmental Protection Area Roads
uses and stoEnrmvirwonmental Sater matudy Arnageeament features. TEnvirogonmental Cether, thonstrey paintsrovide spaces tWatheracourt suspeport the ecological and hydrological function of the area and serve as venues for
outdoor community and recreational life.
Park typologies include a Community Park, Neighbourhood Parks, Parkettes and Public Squares to serve the needs of the community.
Figure 36: Parks & Open Spaces
AECOM40
Municipality of Clarington Urban Design and Sustainability Guidelines for Southeast Courtice
Principle
To create a functional, safe interconnected
system of parks within SEC.
General Park Guidelines:
a. Locate parks such that all residents are
within 5 minutes walking distance of a
neighbourhood park or a parkette.
b. Locate parks strategically for high visibility
and designed to promote accessibility for all
ages and abilities.
c. Create a hierarchy of parks connected by
active transportation routes.
d. Architectural and landscape elements shall
be incorporated and appropriate mitigation
measures shall be incorporated to address
concerns of noise attenuation and visual
privacy.
e. Higher density built forms incorporating a
terraced approach shall frame the park with
“eyes on the park” to promote safety through
casual surveillance.
f. Park entrance design should provide
pedestrian scale lighting & signage to assist
in orientation & use of park amenities.
g. Vehicular connections through parkland
should be limited to emergency vehicle
routes and access to major park facilities and
parking areas.
Environmental Protection Area
Active Frontage Buildings
Active Frontage Buildings
Environmental Protection Area
Environmental Protection Area
Environmental Protection Area
Primary View Corridors
Secondary View Corridors
Medium Density Corridor
Regional Corridor
Elementary School
School
Prominent Intersection (Primary Node)
Prominent Intersection (Secondary Node)
Gateways
5 Minute Walking Distance
Prominent Intersection (Primary Node)
Prominent Intersection (Secondary Node)
Gateways
Squares/Civic
Gateways
Squares/Civic
Public Art
Gateways
Public Square
Commercial / Retail
Prominent Buildings
SECSP Boundary
SECSP Boundary
SECSP Boundary
SECSP Boundary
Environmental Protection Area
Environmental Protection Area
Watercourse
Environmental Protection Area
Watercourse
Watercourse
Environmental Protection Area
Watercourse
Local Road
Connectivity with Local Roads
Laneway
Mid Block Connection
Watercourse
Watercourse
Watercourse
Watercourse
Environmental Constraint
Watercourse
SWF
Trails
Trails
Environmental Protection Area
Watercourse
SWF
Trails
Laneways
Roads
Roads
Roads
Roads
Roads
High Density/Mixed Residential
High Density/Mixed Residential
Medium Density Residential
Parks and Parkettes
Parks and Parkettes
Parks and Parkettes
Parks and Parkettes
Parks
Neighbourhoods
Arterial A
Arterial B
Arterial C
Collector Road
SECSP Boundary
SECSP Boundary
SECSP Boundary
SECSP Boundary
SECSP Boundary
Roads
Prominent Buildings
Roads
Roads
SECSP Boundary
Roads
SECSP Boundary
Roads
SECSP Boundary
Roads
Privately Owned, Publically Accessible Spaces (POPs)
Mid Block Connection
Environmental Protection Area
WatercourseSECSP Boundary
Roads POPs
Mid Block Connection
Laneways
Privately Owned, Publically Accessible Spaces (POPs)
Mid Block Connection
Parks and Parkettes
Neighbourhood Parks
Elementary SchoolSECSP Boundary
Roads Courtice Memorial Park
Elementary School
Elementary School
Elementary School
Elementary School
Elementary School
Watercourse
Watercourse
SECSP Boundary
Roads
SECSP Boundary
Roads
SECSP Boundary
Roads
Parkettes
Laneways
Privately Owned, Publically Accessible Spaces (POPs)
Mid Block Connection
Mixed Use / High Density Residential
High Density/Mixed Residential
Environmental Protection Area
WatercourseSECSP Boundary
Roads
Medium Density Residential
Medium Density Residential
Environmental Protection Area
Environmental Protection Area
Environmental Protection Area
Watercourse
Watercourse
Watercourse
SECSP Boundary
Roads
SECSP Boundary
Roads
SECSP Boundary
Roads
Prominent Intersection (Primary Node)
Prominent Intersection (Secondary Node)
Low Density Residential
Parks and Parkettes
Parks and Parkettes
Developable Land
Parkland
Parks and Parkettes
Neighbour Prime Agriculture Land
WatercourseSECSP Boundary
Roads
Developable Land
Neighbour Employment Area
Watercourse
WatercourseRoads
SECSP Boundary
SECSP Boundary
Watercourse
SECSP Boundary Developable Land
Area Subject to Environmental Study
Parks and Parkettes Watercourse
SECSP Boundary Developable Land Area Subject to Environmental Study
WatercourseSECSP Boundary
Roads
Developable Land
Neighbour Recommended PSEZ
Dedicated Cycle Lane
On-Street Bike Lane
Environmental Protection Area
Connectivity with Local Roads
Trails
Local Road
Connectivity with Local Roads
Privately Owned, Publically Accessible Spaces (POPs)
Mid Block Connection
3.5.1 Community Park (Courtice Memorial Park)
Building on the existing, Courtice Memorial Park (CMP) is intended to serve as a landmark outdoor space for the larger community of Courtice.
intersection of two arterial roads, adjacent to the EP with direct linkages providing connectivity to the Regional and Municipal Open Space System.
Principle
Create a park with a sense of place and identity to form the central focus of the SEC
area while serving the social and recreational needs of the community.
Guidelines:
a. CMP shall be located with a
minimum of 2 frontages along major
roads to ensure ease of access
and to reinforce a strong public
be permitted along the aforesaid
frontages, underground parking is
encouraged.
b. Co-locate near mixed use areas to
promote shared facilities such as
parking.
c. Strategically locate entrances and
create a focal area distinguished
through landscape design & the use
of elements such as public art, water
shading in open areas.
d. Provide recreational opportunities
for all seasons, including
programmed areas for active
outdoor and indoor recreational
paths, etc.) and non-programmed
open space to support low intensity
recreation (e.g. walking trails,
community gardens, seating areas,
park pavilions, interpretive displays,
etc.)
e. Walkways and paths should be
designed throughout the park to
facilitate circulation and emphasize
vistas and other scenic or
interesting views. Utilities shall be
located discretely and should be
incorporated into landscape feature
and/ or screened where necessary
to preserve desirable views.
f. Express the character of the
neighbourhood through the use
of special features such as hard
surface paving, seating, lighting
and landscape details. Interpretive
Plaques and pathway markers shall
be considered where applicable
relocated heritage buildings and
sites.1.2kmFigure 37: Courtice Memorial Park
41AECOM
Municipality of Clarington Urban Design and Sustainability Guidelines for Southeast Courtice
Environmental Protection AreaEnvironmental Protection AreaActive Frontage Buildings
Active Frontage Buildings
Environmental Protection AreaEnvironmental Protection Area
Environmental Protection Area
Primary View Corridors Secondary View CorridorsMedium Density CorridorRegional Corridor
Elementary School
School
Prominent Intersection (Primary Node)Prominent Intersection (Secondary Node)Gateways
5 Minute Walking Distance
Prominent Intersection (Primary Node)
Prominent Intersection (Secondary Node)
Gateways
Squares/Civic
Gateways
Squares/Civic
Public Art
Gateways
Public Square
Commercial / RetailProminent BuildingsEnvironmental Study AreaSECSP BoundarySECSP BoundarySECSP BoundarySECSP BoundarySECSP Boundary
Environmental Protection Area
Environmental Protection Area
Environmental Constraints WatercourseWatercourseEnvironmental Protection AreaWatercourseWatercourseEnvironmental Protection Area WatercourseLocal RoadConnectivity with Local RoadsLaneway Mid Block ConnectionWatercourse
Watercourse
Watercourse
Watercourse
Environmental Constraint
Watercourse
SWF
Trails
Trails
Environmental Protection Area
Watercourse
SWF
Trails
Laneways
Roads
RoadsRoads RoadsRoadsRoads
High Density/Mixed Residential
High Density/Mixed Residential
Medium Density Residential
Parks and Parkettes
Parks and Parkettes
Parks and Parkettes
Parks and Parkettes
Parks NeighbourhoodsArterial A Arterial BArterial CCollector RoadSECSP BoundarySECSP Boundary
SECSP Boundary
SECSP Boundary
SECSP Boundary
Roads
Prominent Buildings
Roads
Roads
SECSP Boundary
Roads
SECSP Boundary
Roads
SECSP Boundary
Roads
Privately Owned, Publically Accessible Spaces (POPs)
Mid Block Connection
Environmental Protection Area WatercourseSECSP BoundaryRoads POPsMid Block Connection
Laneways
Privately Owned, Publically Accessible Spaces (POPs)
Mid Block Connection
Parks and Parkettes
Neighbourhood Parks
Elementary SchoolSECSP Boundary
Roads Courtice Memorial Park
Elementary School
Elementary School
Elementary School
Elementary School
Elementary School
Watercourse
Watercourse
SECSP Boundary
Roads
SECSP Boundary
Roads
SECSP Boundary
Roads
Parkettes
Laneways
Privately Owned, Publically Accessible Spaces (POPs)
Mid Block Connection
Mixed Use / High Density Residential
High Density/Mixed Residential
Environmental Protection Area
WatercourseSECSP Boundary
Roads
Medium Density Residential
Medium Density Residential
Environmental Protection Area
Environmental Protection Area
Environmental Protection Area
Watercourse
Watercourse
Watercourse
SECSP Boundary
Roads
SECSP Boundary
Roads
SECSP Boundary
Roads
Prominent Intersection (Primary Node)
Prominent Intersection (Secondary Node)
Low Density Residential
Parks and Parkettes
Parks and Parkettes
Developable Land
Parkland
Parks and Parkettes
Neighbour Prime Agriculture Land
WatercourseSECSP Boundary
Roads
Developable Land
Neighbour Employment Area
Watercourse
WatercourseRoads
SECSP Boundary
SECSP Boundary
Watercourse
SECSP Boundary Developable Land
Area Subject to Environmental Study
Parks and Parkettes Watercourse
SECSP Boundary Developable Land Area Subject to Environmental Study
WatercourseSECSP Boundary
Roads
Developable Land
Neighbour Recommended PSEZ
Dedicated Cycle Lane
On-Street Bike Lane
Environmental Protection Area
Connectivity with Local Roads
Trails
Local Road
Connectivity with Local Roads
Privately Owned, Publically Accessible Spaces (POPs)
Mid Block Connection
3.6 Neighbourhood Parks
Neighbourhood parks provide the opportunity for each neighbourhood to distinguish themselves from one another through the development of distinct design and
landscaping treatments, while contributing to the overall structure and identity of Courtice.
residents of that neighbourhood. Ranging between 1.5 to 3 hectares depending on the area served and activities provided, these parks are predominantly designed to
support the active recreational needs of the community and have good accessibility to the trail system.
Principle
Intended as a local focal point and gathering place, Neighbourhood Parks
serve the basic active recreational needs of the residents and children in the
neighbourhood.
Guidelines:
a. Parks shall be programmed areas
for active recreation including
b. Centrally located along a collector
road, they mark a local intersection
or terminus of a street and where
possible, integrate with an adjacent
natural heritage feature.
c. They shall have a minimum of
two frontages or 50% of the
park perimeter along the street,
whichever is greater.
d. Neighbourhood Parks shall be
located adjacent to school sites
to encourage sharing of outdoor
facilities such as parking.
e. Development should be designed
to front onto the Neighbourhood
Park wherever possible. Where
residential side or rear yards abut a
Neighbourhood Park, fencing and
landscaping should be provided to
demarcate the public and private
realm.
f. Park entrance design should be
and architectural elements, using
pedestrian scale lighting and
signage to assist in orientation and
use of park amenities.
g. Parks shall include play structures,
informal playgrounds, seating,
hard surface areas, shaded areas
under tree canopies or open air
structures.
h. Street trees shall be planted
along the edge of parks, while
not screening the view. On-street
parking along public streets is
encouraged adjacent to the park.
i. Highly visible connections should
link the major park amenities and
facilities through walkways and
bicycle paths.
j. Seating and shade areas should
be designed in coordination with
pathways and play area locations. 400m400m400m400m4
0
0m
4
0
0m
400mFigure 38: Neighbourhood Parks
Environmental Protection AreaEnvironmental Protection AreaActive Frontage Buildings
Active Frontage Buildings
Environmental Protection Area
Environmental Protection Area
Environmental Protection Area
Primary View Corridors Secondary View CorridorsMedium Density CorridorRegional Corridor
Elementary School
School
Prominent Intersection (Primary Node)Prominent Intersection (Secondary Node)Gateways
5 Minute Walking Distance
Prominent Intersection (Primary Node)
Prominent Intersection (Secondary Node)
Gateways
Squares/Civic
Gateways
Squares/Civic
Public Art
Gateways
Public Square
Commercial / RetailProminent BuildingsEnvironmental Study AreaSECSP BoundarySECSP BoundarySECSP BoundarySECSP BoundarySECSP Boundary
Environmental Protection Area
Environmental Protection Area
Environmental Constraints WatercourseWatercourseEnvironmental Protection AreaWatercourseWatercourseEnvironmental Protection Area Watercourse
Local Road
Connectivity with Local Roads
Laneway
Mid Block Connection
Watercourse
Watercourse
Watercourse
Watercourse
Environmental Constraint
Watercourse
SWF
Trails
Trails
Environmental Protection Area
Watercourse
SWF
Trails
Laneways
Roads
RoadsRoads RoadsRoadsRoads
High Density/Mixed Residential
High Density/Mixed Residential
Medium Density Residential
Parks and Parkettes
Parks and Parkettes
Parks and Parkettes
Parks and Parkettes
Parks Neighbourhoods
Arterial A
Arterial B
Arterial C
Collector Road
SECSP Boundary
SECSP Boundary
SECSP Boundary
SECSP Boundary
SECSP Boundary
Roads
Prominent Buildings
Roads
Roads
SECSP Boundary
Roads
SECSP Boundary
Roads
SECSP Boundary
Roads
Privately Owned, Publically Accessible Spaces (POPs)
Mid Block Connection
Environmental Protection Area WatercourseSECSP BoundaryRoads POPsMid Block Connection
Laneways
Privately Owned, Publically Accessible Spaces (POPs)
Mid Block Connection
Parks and Parkettes
Neighbourhood Parks
Elementary SchoolSECSP Boundary
Roads Courtice Memorial Park
Elementary School
Elementary School
Elementary School
Elementary School
Elementary School
Watercourse
Watercourse
SECSP Boundary
Roads
SECSP Boundary
Roads
SECSP Boundary
Roads
Parkettes
Laneways
Privately Owned, Publically Accessible Spaces (POPs)
Mid Block Connection
Mixed Use / High Density Residential
High Density/Mixed Residential
Environmental Protection Area
WatercourseSECSP Boundary
Roads
Medium Density Residential
Medium Density Residential
Environmental Protection Area
Environmental Protection Area
Environmental Protection Area
Watercourse
Watercourse
Watercourse
SECSP Boundary
Roads
SECSP Boundary
Roads
SECSP Boundary
Roads
Prominent Intersection (Primary Node)
Prominent Intersection (Secondary Node)
Low Density Residential
Parks and Parkettes
Parks and Parkettes
Developable Land
Parkland
Parks and Parkettes
Neighbour Prime Agriculture Land
WatercourseSECSP Boundary
Roads
Developable Land
Neighbour Employment Area
Watercourse
WatercourseRoads
SECSP Boundary
SECSP Boundary
Watercourse
SECSP Boundary Developable Land
Area Subject to Environmental Study
Parks and Parkettes Watercourse
SECSP Boundary Developable Land Area Subject to Environmental Study
WatercourseSECSP Boundary
Roads
Developable Land
Neighbour Recommended PSEZ
Dedicated Cycle Lane
On-Street Bike Lane
Environmental Protection Area
Connectivity with Local Roads
Trails
Local Road
Connectivity with Local Roads
Privately Owned, Publically Accessible Spaces (POPs)
Mid Block Connection
AECOM42
Municipality of Clarington Urban Design and Sustainability Guidelines for Southeast Courtice
3.7 Parkettes
Intended to augment the recreation, leisure and amenity needs of residents within the adjacent neighbourhood, Parkettes shall be between 0.5 ha and 1 ha in size.
Parkettes supplement the Neighbourhood Park system to ensure a variety of amenities and spaces are available within 400 m of all residents. Parkettes are small
components of the parks and open space system, that can be soft surfaced and green or hard surfaced and are linked to the larger Parks and Open Space Network
through active transportation routes including sidewalks and bicycle paths.
Principle
Create a sub-node within a neighbourhood providing opportunities for passive and
informal recreation through seating, gardens, structures, and landscaping.
Guidelines:
a. Parkettes are unprogrammed
spaces. While they do not support
land-extensive active recreation
facilities shall be permitted.
b. Parkettes shall be dispersed
throughout the community. They are
expected to provide key connecting
links, and enhance the overall Parks
and Open Space System.
c. Parkettes should be located on
visible road frontages and their
through landscape treatment and
built form elements.
d. View corridors terminating at a
Parkette should be highlighted
through landscape treatment and/or
built form elements. Where located
adjacent to natural features, they
provide a view termini and passive
transitions from built to natural
areas.
e. Parkette entrances and features
should have enhanced design
and landscaping treatments, such
as seating, walkways and paths,
signage, benches, stone work,
planters, structures, gardens,
ornamental planting, and other
visual amenities that contribute to
the distinctive character of the local
community.
f. Pathways within Parkettes should
connect to pedestrian sidewalks
and trails system within broader
community.
g. Adjacent residential units shall front
onto a local street overlooking the
parkette. Rear lotting shall not be
permitted.
h. The use of Interpretive Plaques
and pathway markers shall be
lost or relocated heritage buildings
and sites.
Figure 39: Parkettes
Environmental Protection AreaEnvironmental Protection AreaActive Frontage Buildings
Active Frontage Buildings
Environmental Protection AreaEnvironmental Protection Area
Environmental Protection Area
Primary View Corridors Secondary View CorridorsMedium Density CorridorRegional Corridor
Elementary School
School
Prominent Intersection (Primary Node)Prominent Intersection (Secondary Node)Gateways
5 Minute Walking Distance
Prominent Intersection (Primary Node)
Prominent Intersection (Secondary Node)
Gateways
Squares/Civic
Gateways
Squares/Civic
Public Art
Gateways
Public Square
Commercial / RetailProminent BuildingsEnvironmental Study AreaSECSP BoundarySECSP BoundarySECSP BoundarySECSP BoundarySECSP Boundary
Environmental Protection Area
Environmental Protection Area
Environmental Constraints WatercourseWatercourseEnvironmental Protection AreaWatercourseWatercourseEnvironmental Protection Area WatercourseLocal RoadConnectivity with Local RoadsLaneway Mid Block ConnectionWatercourse
Watercourse
Watercourse
Watercourse
Environmental ConstraintWatercourseSWF Trails
Trails
Environmental Protection Area
Watercourse
SWF
Trails
Laneways
Roads
RoadsRoads RoadsRoadsRoadsHigh Density/Mixed Residential High Density/Mixed ResidentialMedium Density Residential Parks and Parkettes
Parks and Parkettes
Parks and Parkettes
Parks and Parkettes
Parks NeighbourhoodsArterial A Arterial BArterial CCollector RoadSECSP BoundarySECSP BoundarySECSP Boundary
SECSP Boundary
SECSP Boundary
Roads
Prominent Buildings
Roads
Roads
SECSP Boundary
Roads
SECSP Boundary
Roads
SECSP Boundary
Roads
Privately Owned, Publically Accessible Spaces (POPs)
Mid Block Connection
Environmental Protection Area WatercourseSECSP BoundaryRoads POPsMid Block Connection
Laneways
Privately Owned, Publically Accessible Spaces (POPs)
Mid Block Connection
Parks and Parkettes
Neighbourhood Parks
Elementary SchoolSECSP Boundary
Roads Courtice Memorial Park
Elementary School
Elementary School
Elementary School
Elementary School
Elementary School
Watercourse
Watercourse
SECSP Boundary
Roads
SECSP Boundary
Roads
SECSP Boundary
Roads
Parkettes
Laneways
Privately Owned, Publically Accessible Spaces (POPs)
Mid Block Connection
Mixed Use / High Density Residential
High Density/Mixed Residential
Environmental Protection Area
WatercourseSECSP Boundary
Roads
Medium Density Residential
Medium Density Residential
Environmental Protection Area
Environmental Protection Area
Environmental Protection Area
Watercourse
Watercourse
Watercourse
SECSP Boundary
Roads
SECSP Boundary
Roads
SECSP Boundary
Roads
Prominent Intersection (Primary Node)
Prominent Intersection (Secondary Node)
Low Density Residential
Parks and Parkettes
Parks and Parkettes
Developable Land
Parkland
Parks and Parkettes
Neighbour Prime Agriculture Land
WatercourseSECSP Boundary
Roads
Developable Land
Neighbour Employment Area
Watercourse
WatercourseRoads
SECSP Boundary
SECSP Boundary
Watercourse
SECSP Boundary Developable Land
Area Subject to Environmental Study
Parks and Parkettes Watercourse
SECSP Boundary Developable Land Area Subject to Environmental Study
WatercourseSECSP Boundary
Roads
Developable Land
Neighbour Recommended PSEZ
Dedicated Cycle Lane
On-Street Bike Lane
Environmental Protection Area
Connectivity with Local Roads
Trails
Local Road
Connectivity with Local Roads
Privately Owned, Publically Accessible Spaces (POPs)
Mid Block Connection250m250m250m250m250m250m 43AECOM
Municipality of Clarington Urban Design and Sustainability Guidelines for Southeast Courtice
contribute to creating a sense of place and add to the interest of the urban environment.
They shall not vary from 0.5ha - 1 ha in size and can be used for cultural events, public art, farmer’s markets, and small scale outdoor activities/games. They shall be
highly visible from the dominant street frontage and shall be designed to support activity year round.
3.8 Public Squares
Figure 40: Public Squares
Environmental Protection AreaEnvironmental Protection AreaActive Frontage Buildings
Active Frontage Buildings
Environmental Protection AreaEnvironmental Protection Area
Environmental Protection Area
Primary View Corridors Secondary View CorridorsMedium Density CorridorRegional Corridor
Elementary School
School Prominent Intersection (Primary Node)Prominent Intersection (Secondary Node)Gateways
5 Minute Walking Distance
Prominent Intersection (Primary Node)Prominent Intersection (Secondary Node)GatewaysSquares/Civic
Gateways
Squares/Civic
Public Art
Gateways
Public Square
Commercial / RetailProminent BuildingsEnvironmental Study AreaSECSP BoundarySECSP BoundarySECSP BoundarySECSP BoundarySECSP BoundaryEnvironmental Protection Area
Environmental Protection Area
Environmental Constraints WatercourseWatercourseEnvironmental Protection AreaWatercourseWatercourseEnvironmental Protection Area WatercourseLocal RoadConnectivity with Local RoadsLaneway Mid Block ConnectionWatercourse
Watercourse
Watercourse
Watercourse
Environmental ConstraintWatercourseSWF Trails
Trails
Environmental Protection Area
Watercourse
SWF
Trails
LanewaysRoadsRoadsRoads RoadsRoadsRoadsHigh Density/Mixed Residential High Density/Mixed ResidentialMedium Density Residential Parks and ParkettesParks and Parkettes
Parks and Parkettes
Parks and Parkettes
Parks NeighbourhoodsArterial A Arterial BArterial CCollector RoadSECSP BoundarySECSP BoundarySECSP Boundary
SECSP Boundary
SECSP Boundary
Roads
Prominent Buildings
Roads
Roads
SECSP Boundary
Roads
SECSP Boundary
Roads
SECSP Boundary
Roads
Privately Owned, Publically Accessible Spaces (POPs)Mid Block ConnectionEnvironmental Protection Area WatercourseSECSP BoundaryRoads POPsMid Block Connection
Laneways
Privately Owned, Publically Accessible Spaces (POPs)
Mid Block Connection
Parks and Parkettes
Neighbourhood Parks
Elementary SchoolSECSP Boundary
Roads Courtice Memorial Park
Elementary School
Elementary School
Elementary School
Elementary School
Elementary School
Watercourse
Watercourse
SECSP Boundary
Roads
SECSP Boundary
Roads
SECSP Boundary
Roads
Parkettes
Laneways
Privately Owned, Publically Accessible Spaces (POPs)
Mid Block Connection
Mixed Use / High Density Residential
High Density/Mixed Residential
Environmental Protection Area
WatercourseSECSP Boundary
Roads
Medium Density Residential
Medium Density Residential
Environmental Protection Area
Environmental Protection Area
Environmental Protection Area
Watercourse
Watercourse
Watercourse
SECSP Boundary
Roads
SECSP Boundary
Roads
SECSP Boundary
Roads
Prominent Intersection (Primary Node)
Prominent Intersection (Secondary Node)
Low Density Residential
Parks and Parkettes
Parks and Parkettes
Developable Land
Parkland
Parks and Parkettes
Neighbour Prime Agriculture Land
WatercourseSECSP Boundary
Roads
Developable Land
Neighbour Employment Area
Watercourse
WatercourseRoads
SECSP Boundary
SECSP Boundary
Watercourse
SECSP Boundary Developable Land
Area Subject to Environmental Study
Parks and Parkettes Watercourse
SECSP Boundary Developable Land Area Subject to Environmental Study
WatercourseSECSP Boundary
Roads
Developable Land
Neighbour Recommended PSEZ
Dedicated Cycle Lane
On-Street Bike Lane
Environmental Protection Area
Connectivity with Local Roads
Trails
Local Road
Connectivity with Local Roads
Privately Owned, Publically Accessible Spaces (POPs)
Mid Block Connection
AECOM44
Municipality of Clarington Urban Design and Sustainability Guidelines for Southeast Courtice
Principle
Create destinations along the public realm to anchor and support adjacent retail,
commercial, civic or cultural uses thereby enhancing the pedestrian experience.
Guidelines:
a. As primary gathering spaces
Public Squares shall have highly
visible entries and be located at
primary and secondary prominent
intersections, at Gateway locations
and at key intersections within the
SEC neighbourhood.
b. A public square shall be provided at
a minimum, every 500m to provide
opportunities for socializing and
interaction.
c. Sited adjacent to key pedestrian
connections, destinations or
linkages, public squares function as
focus points along the public realm
of the Regional Corridor.
d. To ensure a high quality
environment, excellence in
architectural and material quality,
landscape and urban design,
exterior furniture, signage and
lighting shall be a priority.
e. Incorporate other aspects that
could contribute to the public realm
such as a public art, integrated
plaques and pathway markers.
f. Public art provides an opportunity
to celebrate and showcase local
arts and culture; establish a unique
identity and contribute to creating a
sense of association and ownership
for residents of the community.
Public art may include memorials,
sculpture, water features, murals or
individual art installations.
g. Smart technologies shall be
considered to provide internet
connectivity and live updates
on programs and activities in
Clarington.
h. Underground parking shall
be provided at all locations
with surface parking limited to
accessibility spots.
GO
vegetation protection zone provided that the intent of the vegetation protection zone is maintained and it is supported by the Environmental Impact Study.
To promote self sustainable neighbourhoods within Southeast Courtice, low impact development techniques are encouraged that not only contribute functionally but
create opportunities for social interaction and community building.
Figure 41: Stormwater Ponds
3.9 Sitewide Low Impact Development & Stormwater Ponds
Principle
erosion management, public access and passive recreation opportunities.
Guidelines:
a. Limit the number of SWM ponds for
b. Integrate Storm ponds with
parkland as part of the landscape.
Avoid fencing to promote
public access and surveillance
opportunities. Shallow slopes
should be considered for direct
access areas and overlooks with
railings or densely planted areas
should be applied to discourage
direct access.
c. Vegetated swales and planters are
integrated into site landscaping to
Trees, shrubs, grasses and ground
covers are also used in landscape
systems. In poorly drained soils, it
is necessary to consider the cost
aspects of the installation.
d. Porous materials may be used for
walkways, patios, plazas, driveways,
parking lots, and some portions
Pervious concrete in parking lots
can be particularly useful because
of its capacity to store large volume
well as catching oil and chemical
pollutants. Permeable paving can
be connected through attenuation/
e. BIoswales created through
landscape depressions underlain
of a mixture of sand/granular
and organic material. Utilize
a combination of detention,
biological uptake to treat
stormwater.
f. Soil Amendments, Soakaway Pits,
are encouraged on multi family
medium density lots, with green
roofs and rainwater harvesting as
additional measures on mixed use,
high density blocks.
45AECOM
Municipality of Clarington Urban Design and Sustainability Guidelines for Southeast Courtice
Municipality of Clarington Urban Design and Sustainability Guidelines for Southeast Courtice
46 AECOM
4. Private Realm
The Secondary Plan sets out a policy
framework to achieve a broad range of
housing types, tenure, and cost to meet the
evolving housing needs for people of all ages,
abilities and income groups. It encourages
a minimum of 30% of all new housing to be
development of new rental units.
The Urban Design & Sustainability Guidelines
support this vision and provide guidance to
of housing types that incorporate principles
of sustainable development, energy and
The residential, institutional, commercial
and mixed use buildings within a community
contribute to its character and can
complementing the public realm.
The private realm in Southeast Courtice
comprises four land use categories:
Mixed Use, High Density
Residential
Medium Density Residential
Low Density Residential
Schools
Figure 42: Private Realm
47AECOM
Municipality of Clarington Urban Design and Sustainability Guidelines for Southeast Courtice
4.1 Mixed Use, High Density Residential
Recognizing the intersection of regional corridors to be the key points of focus, high density-mixed use (MX-HDR) node at intersection of Courtice Road and Bloor
Street shall function as the primary commercial-retail hub characterized by street front retail, a well shaded and furnished boulevard and opportunities for a full-service
Figure 43: Mixed Use and High Density Residential - Landuse Distribution
Environmental Protection AreaEnvironmental Protection AreaActive Frontage Buildings
Active Frontage Buildings
Environmental Protection AreaEnvironmental Protection Area
Environmental Protection Area
Primary View Corridors Secondary View CorridorsMedium Density CorridorRegional Corridor
Elementary School
School
Prominent Intersection (Primary Node)Prominent Intersection (Secondary Node)Gateways
5 Minute Walking Distance
Prominent Intersection (Primary Node)
Prominent Intersection (Secondary Node)
Gateways
Squares/Civic
Gateways
Squares/Civic
Public Art
Gateways
Public Square
Commercial / RetailProminent BuildingsEnvironmental Study AreaSECSP BoundarySECSP BoundarySECSP BoundarySECSP BoundarySECSP Boundary
Environmental Protection Area
Environmental Protection Area
Environmental Constraints WatercourseWatercourseEnvironmental Protection AreaWatercourseWatercourseEnvironmental Protection Area WatercourseLocal RoadConnectivity with Local RoadsLaneway Mid Block ConnectionWatercourse
Watercourse
Watercourse
Watercourse
Environmental ConstraintWatercourse
SWF
Trails
Trails
Environmental Protection Area
Watercourse
SWF
Trails
Laneways
Roads
RoadsRoads RoadsRoadsRoadsHigh Density/Mixed Residential High Density/Mixed Residential
Medium Density Residential
Parks and Parkettes
Parks and Parkettes
Parks and Parkettes
Parks and Parkettes
Parks NeighbourhoodsArterial A Arterial BArterial CCollector RoadSECSP BoundarySECSP BoundarySECSP Boundary
SECSP Boundary
SECSP Boundary
Roads
Prominent Buildings
Roads
Roads
SECSP Boundary
Roads
SECSP Boundary
Roads
SECSP Boundary
Roads
Privately Owned, Publically Accessible Spaces (POPs)
Mid Block Connection
Environmental Protection Area WatercourseSECSP BoundaryRoads POPsMid Block Connection
Laneways
Privately Owned, Publically Accessible Spaces (POPs)
Mid Block Connection
Parks and Parkettes
Neighbourhood Parks
Elementary SchoolSECSP Boundary
Roads Courtice Memorial Park
Elementary School
Elementary School
Elementary School
Elementary School
Elementary
School
Watercourse
Watercourse
SECSP Boundary
Roads
SECSP Boundary
Roads
SECSP Boundary
Roads
Parkettes
Laneways
Privately Owned, Publically Accessible Spaces (POPs)
Mid Block Connection
Mixed Use / High Density Residential
High Density/Mixed Residential
Environmental Protection Area
WatercourseSECSP Boundary
Roads
Medium Density Residential
Medium Density Residential
Environmental Protection Area
Environmental Protection Area
Environmental Protection Area
Watercourse
Watercourse
Watercourse
SECSP Boundary
Roads
SECSP Boundary
Roads
SECSP Boundary
Roads
Prominent Intersection (Primary Node)
Prominent Intersection (Secondary Node)
Low Density Residential
Parks and Parkettes
Parks and Parkettes
Developable Land
Parkland
Parks and Parkettes
Neighbour Prime Agriculture Land
WatercourseSECSP Boundary
Roads
Developable Land
Neighbour Employment Area
Watercourse
WatercourseRoads
SECSP Boundary
SECSP Boundary
Watercourse
SECSP Boundary Developable Land
Area Subject to Environmental Study
Parks and Parkettes Watercourse
SECSP Boundary Developable Land Area Subject to Environmental Study
WatercourseSECSP Boundary
Roads
Developable Land
Neighbour Recommended PSEZ
Dedicated Cycle Lane
On-Street Bike Lane
Environmental Protection Area
Connectivity with Local Roads
Trails
Local Road
Connectivity with Local Roads
Privately Owned, Publically Accessible Spaces (POPs)
Mid Block Connection
AECOM48
Municipality of Clarington Urban Design and Sustainability Guidelines for Southeast Courtice
Principle
addressing built form, massing and relationship to the street to support an active,
attractive, comfortable and safe public realm.
Guidelines:
a. Siting and Massing
–Building typology shall include
apartments ranging in height from
7 - 12 storeys.
–Higher density development
at major intersections should
be developed to reinforce the
prominence of these locations
through appropriate massing,
building projections, and
recesses at grade, pedestrian-
scale buildings, and open space
treatments.
–Site buildings such that they create
continuous building frontages
at street level, increase the
open spaces, minimise internal
circulation, maximize views to
gardens/ recreational areas
–Position and orient buildings in a
manner that is sustainable and least
energy consuming. Ensure cross
ventilation in habitable units.
–
plates with acute corners as it
increases the amount of non-
–Design the building mass to ensure
uniformity across all buildings
volumes irrespective of the
design of their building footprint
or elevation character. Abrupt
changes in massing are to be
avoided,
–All buildings shall feature a ground
related 2 storey commercial-retail
podium, creating a clear building
line at the base level that forms a
reference for street level users, a
residential tower body and a well
building shall feature a step-back
above the 4th storey to ensure
coordinated development and a
consistent street wall.
–The front setback of the
commercial retail podium shall be
usable as outdoor spill over space,
establishing a strong relationship to
the street, both by use and form. As
the interface between the sidewalk
and the built form, this space shall
be considered an extension of the
public realm, and provided with high
quality pedestrian infrastructure
including shaded seating,
pedestrian lighting and landscape
elements to support a vibrant street
environment, enhance pedestrian
access and comfort.
–Located at prominent intersections
and serving as primary community
destinations, well articulated
gathering areas and good
pedestrian connectivity through
the block is a priority. Public
squares, mid bock connections
and privately owned, publically
accessible spaces (POPs) providing
connectivity to the larger street grid
network shall be provided to meet
this requirement.
b. Apartments
–Apartment buildings located to the
rear of the block shall range from
3-6 storeys to facilitate a transition
to the adjacent Low-Rise residential
neighbourhood.
–
for all buildings should be 4.5
metres above grade to facilitate
change of use over time.
–Buildings shall have main entrances
directly addressing the street with
street front lobbies to allow for safe
and convenient access.
–
emphasized through articulations
of the exterior wall plane and roof,
and the use of pronounced building
elements including bay windows,
and integrated balconies.
–Rooftop mechanical equipment
should be screened with materials,
durable and complementary to the
building.
c. Parking and Utilities
–Direct access for parking from high
be permitted. Primary vehicular and
servicing access driveways shall be
provided from side streets or along
rear laneways with less pedestrian
–
shall be minimized by locating
servicing and loading bays in
close proximity to vehicular site
entrances. Underground parking
shall be provided, surface parking
shall be limited to accessible spots
& visitor parking.
–Garbage and recycling storage
shall be located within the building
envelope.
Figure 44: Mixed Use, High Density Residential - Cross Section
Figure 45: Mixed Use, High Density Residential - Typical Layout
Underground Parking
49AECOM
Municipality of Clarington Urban Design and Sustainability Guidelines for Southeast Courtice
Regional Corridor Multi-wayMixed-Use
High Rise Residential
Local Road
Loading / Servicing Bay
Mid-block connectionOutdoor Spill Out (extension of the public realmLoading / Servicing Bay
Loading / Servicing Bay
Internal Driveway / LanewaySide road vehicular entry & access Property BoundaryStreet wall
4.2 Medium Density Residential
Lands designated as Medium Density Residential are located within the Regional Corridor.
low-rise building forms. Retail and service uses shall be provided at strategic locations to reinforce the community structure and provide access to local amenities
within walking distances for residents of the surrounding areas.
Principle
Provide for a variety of housing options and create a smooth transition from higher
density built forms to the adjacent low-density residential areas while addressing
the functional, spatial, and aesthetic quality of the public realm.
Guidelines:
a. Siting and Massing
–A variety of lot widths and a mix of
building typologies ranging from 3 to
6 storey apartments to townhouses
are encouraged to avoid monotony
in built form and create an interesting
street frontage.
–Buildings of less than 4 storeys shall
not be permitted within 50m of an
intersection.
–Massing and built form shall be
articulated in a manner that ensures
consistancy across building
types and reinforces common
characteristics for visual unity within
the community. Abrupt changes in
massing are to be avoided. A step
back shall be provided above the 3rd
wall.
–As the interface between the
sidewalk and the built form, the
front setback shall be considered
an extension of the public realm and
establish a strong relationship with
the street. Back-lotting shall not be
permitted.
–Ensuring a high level of permeability
through medium density blocks
and connectivity with the larger
street grid network is essential and
shall be achieved using mid bock
connections or POPs every 75-
100m.
–Direct access for parking from
Arterial Roads shall not be permitted.
Primary vehicular and servicing
access driveways shall be provided
from side streets or along rear
b. Apartment Buildings
–Buildings shall not exceed 20m in
height and shall be broken down
with architectural elements, building
a base, body and top.
–Buildings adjacent to Arterial A shall
feature a step-back above the 4th
storey on the front facade to ensure
Figure 46: Medium Density Residential - Landuse Distribution
Environmental Protection AreaEnvironmental Protection AreaActive Frontage Buildings
Active Frontage Buildings
Environmental Protection AreaEnvironmental Protection Area
Environmental Protection Area
Primary View Corridors Secondary View CorridorsMedium Density CorridorRegional Corridor
Elementary School
School Prominent Intersection (Primary Node)Prominent Intersection (Secondary Node)Gateways
5 Minute Walking Distance
Prominent Intersection (Primary Node)Prominent Intersection (Secondary Node)Gateways
Squares/Civic
Gateways
Squares/Civic
Public Art
Gateways
Public Square
Commercial / RetailProminent BuildingsEnvironmental Study AreaSECSP BoundarySECSP BoundarySECSP BoundarySECSP BoundarySECSP BoundaryEnvironmental Protection Area
Environmental Protection Area
Environmental Constraints WatercourseWatercourseEnvironmental Protection AreaWatercourseWatercourseEnvironmental Protection Area WatercourseLocal RoadConnectivity with Local RoadsLaneway Mid Block ConnectionWatercourse
Watercourse
Watercourse
Watercourse
Environmental ConstraintWatercourseSWF Trails
Trails
Environmental Protection Area
Watercourse
SWF
Trails
LanewaysRoadsRoadsRoads RoadsRoadsRoadsHigh Density/Mixed Residential High Density/Mixed ResidentialMedium Density Residential Parks and ParkettesParks and Parkettes
Parks and Parkettes
Parks and Parkettes
Parks NeighbourhoodsArterial A Arterial BArterial CCollector RoadSECSP BoundarySECSP BoundarySECSP Boundary
SECSP Boundary
SECSP Boundary
Roads
Prominent Buildings
Roads
Roads
SECSP Boundary
Roads
SECSP Boundary
Roads
SECSP Boundary
Roads
Privately Owned, Publically Accessible Spaces (POPs)Mid Block ConnectionEnvironmental Protection Area WatercourseSECSP BoundaryRoads POPsMid Block Connection
Laneways
Privately Owned, Publically Accessible Spaces (POPs)
Mid Block Connection
Parks and Parkettes
Neighbourhood Parks
Elementary SchoolSECSP Boundary
Roads Courtice Memorial Park
Elementary School
Elementary School
Elementary School
Elementary School
Elementary
School
Watercourse
Watercourse
SECSP Boundary
Roads
SECSP Boundary
Roads
SECSP Boundary
Roads
Parkettes
Laneways
Privately Owned, Publically Accessible Spaces (POPs)
Mid Block Connection
Mixed Use / High Density Residential
High Density/Mixed Residential
Environmental Protection Area
WatercourseSECSP Boundary
Roads
Medium Density Residential
Medium Density Residential
Environmental Protection Area
Environmental Protection Area
Environmental Protection Area
Watercourse
Watercourse
Watercourse
SECSP Boundary
Roads
SECSP Boundary
Roads
SECSP Boundary
Roads
Prominent Intersection (Primary Node)
Prominent Intersection (Secondary Node)
Low Density Residential
Parks and Parkettes
Parks and Parkettes
Developable Land
Parkland
Parks and Parkettes
Neighbour Prime Agriculture Land
WatercourseSECSP Boundary
Roads
Developable Land
Neighbour Employment Area
Watercourse
WatercourseRoads
SECSP Boundary
SECSP Boundary
Watercourse
SECSP Boundary Developable Land
Area Subject to Environmental Study
Parks and Parkettes Watercourse
SECSP Boundary Developable Land Area Subject to Environmental Study
WatercourseSECSP Boundary
Roads
Developable Land
Neighbour Recommended PSEZ
Dedicated Cycle Lane
On-Street Bike Lane
Environmental Protection Area
Connectivity with Local Roads
Trails
Local Road
Connectivity with Local Roads
Privately Owned, Publically Accessible Spaces (POPs)
Mid Block Connection
AECOM50
Municipality of Clarington Urban Design and Sustainability Guidelines for Southeast Courtice
coordinated development and
create a consistent street wall.
–Site buildings to avoid front to back
/ overlook conditions, increase the
open spaces, minimise internal
circulation, and maximize views to
gardens/ recreational areas.
–Position and orient buildings in a
manner that is sustainable and least
energy consuming. Ensure cross
ventilation in habitable units.
–
plates with acute corners as it
increases the amount of non-
–
units shall directly address the
street with highly visible lobbies
to allow for safe and convenient
access.
–
terraces, step backs and shall be
emphasized through articulations
of the exterior wall plane and roof,
and the use of pronounced building
elements including bay windows,
and integrated balconies.
–
shall be minimized by locating
servicing and loading bays in
close proximity to vehicular site
entrances. Garbage and recycling
storage shall be located within the
building envelope.
–Underground parking shall be
provided for apartment buildings,
surface parking shall be limited to
accessible spots & visitor parking.
Townhouses garages shall be
accessed through a rear lane.
–Rooftop mechanical equipment
should be screened with materials,
durable and complementary to the
building.
c. Stacked & Street Townhouses
–Entrances and Street numbers shall
be visible from the street
–Front patios elevated at 0.45m
from the street, porches, balconies,
terraces and stairs are encouraged
and are permitted to project to
a maximum of 2m beyond the
main building facade. The shall be
complement the exterior facade.
–Side and rear elevations visible from
public areas shall have upgraded
facade treatments.
–Shared Amenities including
landscape gardens shall be located
to facilitate ease of access. Regional Corridor Multi-wayMedium Density ResidentialLocal Road
to Underground parking, Loading & Servicing
Mid-block connection
Optional Pedestrian connection
Loading / Servicing Bay
Underground Parking
Local RoadSide road vehicular entry & access Property BoundaryProperty BoundarygaragesTownhouse ApartmentLanewayFigure 47: Medium Density Residential - Cross Section
Figure 48: Medium Density Residential - Typical Layout
51AECOM
Municipality of Clarington Urban Design and Sustainability Guidelines for Southeast Courtice
4.3 Low Density Residential
by the Secondary Plan, the predominant use of lands within the Low Density Residential designation shall be a mix of housing types and tenures in low-rise building
forms.
A minimum density of 13 units per hectare shall be maintained within this designation and could include townhouses, single detached dwellings and semi-detached
dwellings.
Principle
Encourage a mix of housing types and a variety of lot sizes to provide housing
contributing to a safe and active public realm.
Guidelines:
a. Siting & Massing
–A variety of lot widths and a mix
of building typologies including
detached dwellings and semi-
detached dwellings with higher
density housing forms such as low
rise apartments and townhouses
along major roads (collector or
higher designation) are encouraged
to provide a mix of housing options,
avoid monotony in built form
and create an interesting street
frontage.
–Building heights shall not exceed 3
storeys, or 9.5 metres.
–Massing and built form shall be
articulated in a manner that ensures
consistancy across building
types and reinforces common
characteristics for visual unity
within the community. Abrupt
changes in massing are to be
avoided.
–As the interface between the
sidewalk and the built form, the
front setback shall be considered
an extension of the public realm and
establish a strong relationship with
the street. Back-lotting shall not be
permitted.
–Ensuring a high level of permeability
through low density residential
blocks and connectivity to the
larger street grid network is
essential and shall be achieved
using mid bock connections or
POPs every 75-100m.
–Additional pedestrian connections
may be provided after every 5 units.
b. Detached- Semi detached and
Townhouses
–Position and orient buildings in a
manner that is sustainable and least
energy consuming and to facilitate
cross ventilation in habitable units.
–
plates with acute corners as it
increases the amount of non-
Figure 49: Low Density Residential - Landuse Distribution
Environmental Protection AreaEnvironmental Protection AreaActive Frontage Buildings
Active Frontage Buildings
Environmental Protection AreaEnvironmental Protection Area
Environmental Protection Area
Primary View Corridors Secondary View CorridorsMedium Density CorridorRegional Corridor
Elementary School
School Prominent Intersection (Primary Node)Prominent Intersection (Secondary Node)Gateways
5 Minute Walking Distance
Prominent Intersection (Primary Node)Prominent Intersection (Secondary Node)GatewaysSquares/Civic
Gateways
Squares/Civic
Public Art
Gateways
Public Square
Commercial / RetailProminent BuildingsEnvironmental Study AreaSECSP BoundarySECSP BoundarySECSP BoundarySECSP BoundarySECSP BoundaryEnvironmental Protection Area
Environmental Protection Area
Environmental Constraints WatercourseWatercourseEnvironmental Protection AreaWatercourseWatercourseEnvironmental Protection Area WatercourseLocal RoadConnectivity with Local RoadsLaneway Mid Block ConnectionWatercourse
Watercourse
Watercourse
Watercourse
Environmental ConstraintWatercourseSWF Trails
Trails
Environmental Protection Area
Watercourse
SWF
Trails
LanewaysRoadsRoadsRoads RoadsRoadsRoadsHigh Density/Mixed Residential High Density/Mixed ResidentialMedium Density Residential Parks and ParkettesParks and Parkettes
Parks and Parkettes
Parks and Parkettes
Parks NeighbourhoodsArterial A Arterial BArterial CCollector RoadSECSP BoundarySECSP BoundarySECSP Boundary
SECSP Boundary
SECSP Boundary
Roads
Prominent Buildings
Roads
Roads
SECSP Boundary
Roads
SECSP Boundary
Roads
SECSP Boundary
Roads
Privately Owned, Publically Accessible Spaces (POPs)Mid Block ConnectionEnvironmental Protection Area WatercourseSECSP BoundaryRoads POPsMid Block Connection
Laneways
Privately Owned, Publically Accessible Spaces (POPs)
Mid Block Connection
Parks and Parkettes
Neighbourhood Parks
Elementary SchoolSECSP Boundary
Roads Courtice Memorial Park
Elementary School
Elementary School
Elementary School
Elementary School
Elementary
School
Watercourse
Watercourse
SECSP Boundary
Roads
SECSP Boundary
Roads
SECSP Boundary
Roads
Parkettes
Laneways
Privately Owned, Publically Accessible Spaces (POPs)
Mid Block Connection
Mixed Use / High Density Residential
High Density/Mixed Residential
Environmental Protection Area
WatercourseSECSP Boundary
Roads
Medium Density Residential
Medium Density Residential
Environmental Protection Area
Environmental Protection Area
Environmental Protection Area
Watercourse
Watercourse
Watercourse
SECSP Boundary
Roads
SECSP Boundary
Roads
SECSP Boundary
Roads
Prominent Intersection (Primary Node)
Prominent Intersection (Secondary Node)
Low Density Residential
Parks and Parkettes
Parks and Parkettes
Developable Land
Parkland
Parks and Parkettes
Neighbour Prime Agriculture Land
WatercourseSECSP Boundary
Roads
Developable Land
Neighbour Employment Area
Watercourse
WatercourseRoads
SECSP Boundary
SECSP Boundary
Watercourse
SECSP Boundary Developable Land
Area Subject to Environmental Study
Parks and Parkettes Watercourse
SECSP Boundary Developable Land Area Subject to Environmental Study
WatercourseSECSP Boundary
Roads
Developable Land
Neighbour Recommended PSEZ
Dedicated Cycle Lane
On-Street Bike Lane
Environmental Protection Area
Connectivity with Local Roads
Trails
Local Road
Connectivity with Local Roads
Privately Owned, Publically Accessible Spaces (POPs)
Mid Block Connection
AECOM52
Municipality of Clarington Urban Design and Sustainability Guidelines for Southeast Courtice
–Buildings shall have front and
exterior side facades parallel to the
road with front doors, windows and
entry features facing the road.
–Unit numbers shall be visible from
the street.
–Front patios elevated at 0.3m from
the street, porches, balconies,
terraces and stairs are encouraged.
Permitted to project to a maximum
of 2m beyond the main building
facade, they shall be treated with
the exterior facade.
–Corner lots and homes facing or
abutting parks are priority lots
within the neighbourhood. The
design of these homes shall include
windows, materials, and other
architectural treatments equal to
the front elevation of the house
are visible, with the main front
entrance located on the exterior
side elevation, corner windows and
wrap-around porches to emphasize
a corner location.
–Fencing around front and/or exterior
side yards should not block the view
of the sidewalk from the house; their
height shall be limited to 1.2 metres,
and they should be primarily open
structures, not solid walls.
–Porches, stairs, canopies and other
entrance features can encroach
into the required setbacks.
–Garages shall be accessed from a
rear lane. Where unavoidable, they
main building face. Garage doors
facing a public road, shall be set
back a minimum of 6.0 metres from
the road right-of-way.
c. Neighbourhood Center
–Small-scale, neighbourhood-
oriented commercial use supportive
of and compatible with residential
uses shall be located at major
intersections and form key nodes
along the street.
–A public gathering area may be
provided however setbacks shall
not be required.
Townhouse
development
Detached
housing
Local Road
Mid-block connection2 way LanewaygaragesgaragesLocal RoadLocal RoadLocal RoadLocal RoadTownhouse Detached / Semi-detached housingProperty BoundaryProperty BoundaryLanewayFigure 50: Low Density Residential - Cross Section
Figure 51: Low Density Residential - Typical Layout
53AECOM
Municipality of Clarington Urban Design and Sustainability Guidelines for Southeast Courtice
4.4 Schools
Development within SEC is distributed to provide local amenities such as schools, parks and local retail within 5 minutes walking distance to the majority of residents.
The Kawartha Pine Ridge District School Board and the Peterborough Victoria Northumberland and Clarington District School Board are the two boards providing
school service to the Clarington area. Based on the projected population, three elementary schools have been provided.
Figure 52: Elementary Schools - Landuse Distribution
Environmental Protection AreaEnvironmental Protection AreaActive Frontage Buildings
Active Frontage Buildings
Environmental Protection AreaEnvironmental Protection Area Environmental Protection AreaPrimary View Corridors Secondary View CorridorsMedium Density CorridorRegional Corridor
Elementary School
School Prominent Intersection (Primary Node)Prominent Intersection (Secondary Node)Gateways
5 Minute Walking Distance
Prominent Intersection (Primary Node)Prominent Intersection (Secondary Node)GatewaysSquares/CivicGatewaysSquares/Civic Public Art
Gateways
Public Square
Commercial / RetailProminent BuildingsEnvironmental Study AreaSECSP BoundarySECSP BoundarySECSP BoundarySECSP BoundarySECSP BoundaryEnvironmental Protection AreaEnvironmental Protection Area Environmental Constraints WatercourseWatercourseEnvironmental Protection AreaWatercourseWatercourseEnvironmental Protection Area WatercourseLocal RoadConnectivity with Local RoadsLaneway Mid Block ConnectionWatercourseWatercourseWatercourse
Watercourse
Environmental ConstraintWatercourseSWF TrailsTrails
Environmental Protection Area
Watercourse
SWF
Trails
LanewaysRoadsRoadsRoads RoadsRoadsRoadsHigh Density/Mixed Residential High Density/Mixed ResidentialMedium Density Residential Parks and ParkettesParks and ParkettesParks and Parkettes Parks and ParkettesParks NeighbourhoodsArterial A Arterial BArterial CCollector RoadSECSP BoundarySECSP BoundarySECSP BoundarySECSP BoundarySECSP BoundaryRoads
Prominent Buildings
RoadsRoads
SECSP Boundary
Roads
SECSP Boundary
Roads
SECSP Boundary
Roads
Privately Owned, Publically Accessible Spaces (POPs)Mid Block ConnectionEnvironmental Protection Area WatercourseSECSP BoundaryRoads POPsMid Block ConnectionLanewaysPrivately Owned, Publically Accessible Spaces (POPs)Mid Block Connection
Parks and Parkettes
Neighbourhood Parks
Elementary SchoolSECSP Boundary
Roads Courtice Memorial Park
Elementary School
Elementary School
Elementary School
Elementary School
Elementary School
Watercourse
Watercourse
SECSP Boundary
Roads
SECSP Boundary
Roads
SECSP Boundary
Roads
Parkettes
Laneways
Privately Owned, Publically Accessible Spaces (POPs)
Mid Block Connection
Mixed Use / High Density Residential
High Density/Mixed Residential
Environmental Protection Area
WatercourseSECSP Boundary
Roads
Medium Density Residential
Medium Density Residential
Environmental Protection Area
Environmental Protection Area
Environmental Protection Area
Watercourse
Watercourse
Watercourse
SECSP Boundary
Roads
SECSP Boundary
Roads
SECSP Boundary
Roads
Prominent Intersection (Primary Node)
Prominent Intersection (Secondary Node)
Low Density Residential
Parks and Parkettes
Parks and Parkettes
Developable Land
Parkland
Parks and Parkettes
Neighbour Prime Agriculture Land
WatercourseSECSP Boundary
Roads
Developable Land
Neighbour Employment Area
Watercourse
WatercourseRoads
SECSP Boundary
SECSP Boundary
Watercourse
SECSP Boundary Developable Land
Area Subject to Environmental Study
Parks and Parkettes Watercourse
SECSP Boundary Developable Land Area Subject to Environmental Study
WatercourseSECSP Boundary
Roads
Developable Land
Neighbour Recommended PSEZ
Dedicated Cycle Lane
On-Street Bike Lane
Environmental Protection Area
Connectivity with Local Roads
Trails
Local Road
Connectivity with Local Roads
Privately Owned, Publically Accessible Spaces (POPs)
Mid Block Connection
AECOM54
Municipality of Clarington Urban Design and Sustainability Guidelines for Southeast Courtice
Principle
Site and design schools to provide a visual and functional focus for neighbourhood
activity, creating opportunities for community gathering.
Guidelines:
a. Elementary Schools shall be
rectangular in shape and located
centrally within the neighbourhood
with a site area ranging from 2.1ha to
2.5 ha.
b. Schools shall be sited with a
minimum of one road frontage on
a Collector road with the ability to
create a minimum of 2 entrances /
exits.
c. Schools shall be accessible through
multiple modes of transportation.
d. Sidewalks shall be provided on
both sides of street in the vicinity of
schools to ensure the safety of the
students.
e. School design should include safe
bicycle routes, pedestrian crossings,
zones
f. Schools provide an important
source of green space and
programmed outdoor space for
activities such as ball diamonds,
soccer pitches, and running tracks
resources and public funds.
Collocate schools and parks for
g. Solid Board Fence shall be
provided when abutting residential
neighbourhoods.
55AECOM
Municipality of Clarington Urban Design and Sustainability Guidelines for Southeast Courtice
This page is intentionally left blank
Municipality of Clarington Urban Design and Sustainability Guidelines for Southeast Courtice
56 AECOM
5. Transition Zone
The Secondary Plan provides the framework to
attractive and safe urban places.
The Urban Design & Sustainability Guidelines
support this vision and provide guidance to
reinforce, frame and enhance the pedestrian
environment and the relationship of the built form
to the public realm.
Each development application will be required to
consider and respond to the block level context.
This would include a well-mannered response
to the transition between high-mid and low-
density built forms, managing access and on site
connectivity, and the creation of a memorable
visual composition to enhance the streetscape
and the overall pedestrian experience.
Rear lotting to Natural Heritage Areas, Parks to
Parkettes shall not be permitted. Exceptions will
require the approval of the Municipality.
for development adjacent to non-compatible
or environmentally sensitive uses and include
development
adjacent to Agriculture
adjacent to Employment
adjacent to Natural Heritage
adjacent to Parkland
within the Regional Corridor
Figure 53: Transition Zone
57AECOM
Municipality of Clarington Urban Design and Sustainability Guidelines for Southeast Courtice
5.1 Development Adjacent to Agriculture
While the lands to the north and west of the SECSP area are predominantly built out urban areas, the lands to the east comprise a narrow strip of non-farm estate
residential units and agricultural lands, wooded areas and stream courses. Portions of the lands to the south of the SECSP Area contained within the Courtice Urban
Area comprise agricultural land use.
Historically the cleared portions of the ‘Prime Agriculture’ areas surrounding the SECSP Area were used for the production of agricultural crops and livestock. Much of
the wooded areas are associated with steep sided valleys and stream courses or marshy areas.
Principle
The interface between urban development and agriculture should consider the
sensitivity of adjacent agricultural uses and protect for their longterm viability.
Guidelines:
a. Use greater distance (more than the
minimum calculated distance) to
support potential future expansion
of existing operations or new
livestock facilities.
b.
ponds, etc.), natural heritage feature
or a road to separate agriculture
from non-agricultural land uses.
c. Use landscape features like walls,
fences, berm or signage between
of land uses to reduce the potential
for trespassing and potential
vandalism.
d. Locate low occupancy uses on
the developing lands adjacent
to farmland and agriculture
operations.
e.
to increase privacy, reduce visual
impacts and for noise attenuation.
f. Build roads to accommodate
and allow for large shoulders,
better lighting, good sight lines at
signs and lighting systems to allow
for farm equipment.
g. Use of reduced speed limits in the
agricultural areas.
h. Consider the implementation
of surface and/or groundwater
monitoring in areas where
agricultural operations make use of
surface or groundwater as part of
their normal farm practices.
i.
support groundwater recharge or to
minimize the extent of impermeable
surfaces in development areas and
+ Road
Property BoundaryProperty BoundaryPrime Agriculture Urban Residential AreasLocal RoadFigure 54: Development Adjacent to Prime Agriculture Lands - Cross
Figure 55: DevelopmentAdjacent to Prime Agriculture Lands - Plan
Environmental Protection AreaEnvironmental Protection AreaActive Frontage Buildings
Active Frontage Buildings
Environmental Protection AreaEnvironmental Protection Area Environmental Protection AreaPrimary View Corridors Secondary View CorridorsMedium Density CorridorRegional Corridor
Elementary School
School Prominent Intersection (Primary Node)Prominent Intersection (Secondary Node)Gateways
5 Minute Walking Distance
Prominent Intersection (Primary Node)Prominent Intersection (Secondary Node)GatewaysSquares/CivicGatewaysSquares/Civic Public Art
Gateways
Public Square
Commercial / RetailProminent BuildingsEnvironmental Study AreaSECSP BoundarySECSP BoundarySECSP BoundarySECSP BoundarySECSP BoundaryEnvironmental Protection AreaEnvironmental Protection Area Environmental Constraints WatercourseWatercourseEnvironmental Protection AreaWatercourseWatercourseEnvironmental Protection Area WatercourseLocal RoadConnectivity with Local RoadsLaneway Mid Block ConnectionWatercourseWatercourseWatercourse
Watercourse
Environmental ConstraintWatercourseSWF TrailsTrails
Environmental Protection Area
Watercourse
SWF
Trails
LanewaysRoadsRoadsRoads RoadsRoadsRoadsHigh Density/Mixed Residential High Density/Mixed ResidentialMedium Density Residential Parks and ParkettesParks and ParkettesParks and Parkettes Parks and ParkettesParks NeighbourhoodsArterial A Arterial BArterial CCollector RoadSECSP BoundarySECSP BoundarySECSP BoundarySECSP BoundarySECSP BoundaryRoads
Prominent Buildings
RoadsRoads
SECSP Boundary
Roads
SECSP Boundary
Roads
SECSP Boundary
Roads
Privately Owned, Publically Accessible Spaces (POPs)Mid Block ConnectionEnvironmental Protection Area WatercourseSECSP BoundaryRoads POPsMid Block ConnectionLanewaysPrivately Owned, Publically Accessible Spaces (POPs)Mid Block Connection
Parks and Parkettes
Neighbourhood Parks
Elementary SchoolSECSP Boundary
Roads Courtice Memorial Park
Elementary School
Elementary School
Elementary School
Elementary School
Elementary School
Watercourse
Watercourse
SECSP Boundary
Roads
SECSP Boundary
Roads
SECSP Boundary
Roads
Parkettes
Laneways
Privately Owned, Publically Accessible Spaces (POPs)
Mid Block Connection
Mixed Use / High Density Residential
High Density/Mixed Residential
Environmental Protection Area
WatercourseSECSP Boundary
Roads
Medium Density Residential
Medium Density Residential
Environmental Protection Area
Environmental Protection Area
Environmental Protection Area
Watercourse
Watercourse
Watercourse
SECSP Boundary
Roads
SECSP Boundary
Roads
SECSP Boundary
Roads
Prominent Intersection (Primary Node)
Prominent Intersection (Secondary Node)
Low Density Residential
Parks and Parkettes
Parks and Parkettes
Developable Land
Parkland
Parks and Parkettes
Neighbour Prime Agriculture Land
WatercourseSECSP Boundary
Roads
Developable Land
Neighbour Employment Area
Watercourse
WatercourseRoads
SECSP Boundary
SECSP Boundary
Watercourse
SECSP Boundary Developable Land
Area Subject to Environmental Study
Parks and Parkettes Watercourse
SECSP Boundary Developable Land Area Subject to Environmental Study
WatercourseSECSP Boundary
Roads
Developable Land
Neighbour Recommended PSEZ
Dedicated Cycle Lane
On-Street Bike Lane
Environmental Protection Area
Connectivity with Local Roads
Trails
Local Road
Connectivity with Local Roads
Privately Owned, Publically Accessible Spaces (POPs)
Mid Block Connection
AECOM58
Municipality of Clarington Urban Design and Sustainability Guidelines for Southeast Courtice
5.2 Development Adjacent to Employment Areas
Employment lands are a valued part of the City’s economic ecosystem. They should be protected and preserved, which requires, in many cases, that compatible uses
and appropriate setbacks are required adjacent to these lands.
SEC is bounded by the Courtice Employment Lands to the south. A portion of these lands forms part of the Major Transit Station Areas of the future Courtice GO
Station proposed north of Baseline Road.
Principle
Guidelines:
a. Adjacent development should not
impact the longterm feasibility of
employment lands. Appropriate
screening should be considered
for development adjacent to
employment uses.
b. Adjacent development should not
prevent access to the appropriate
infrastructure necessary for
servicing employment lands.
c. Noise attenuation measures,
including noise walls and berms,
must be implemented.
d. Backyard Separation through the
with properties separated by a noise
attenuation wall or slatted wood
fence to provide visual separation
and some relief from noise. In this
one another.
e. Should the Backyard separation
not be feasible, the following two
options may be considered.
–Road Separation - In this
employment districts from
residential area. Residential and
employment properties front onto
the road.
–Backyard and Road - In this
back onto a road separating
residential and employment land
uses. A noise attenuation wall or
landscaping may be used to create
visual separation and diminish any
noise associated with potential
activities occurring on employment
sites.
rear setback backyardProperty BoundaryProperty BoundaryEmployment Lands Urban Residential Areas
Figure 56: Development Adjacent to Employment Areas - Cross Section
Figure 57: Development Adjacent to Employment Areas - Plan
Environmental Protection AreaEnvironmental Protection AreaActive Frontage BuildingsActive Frontage Buildings Environmental Protection AreaEnvironmental Protection Area Environmental Protection AreaPrimary View Corridors Secondary View CorridorsMedium Density CorridorRegional Corridor
Elementary School
School Prominent Intersection (Primary Node)Prominent Intersection (Secondary Node)Gateways 5 Minute Walking DistanceProminent Intersection (Primary Node)Prominent Intersection (Secondary Node)GatewaysSquares/CivicGatewaysSquares/Civic Public Art
Gateways
Public Square
Commercial / RetailProminent BuildingsEnvironmental Study AreaSECSP BoundarySECSP BoundarySECSP BoundarySECSP BoundarySECSP BoundaryEnvironmental Protection AreaEnvironmental Protection Area Environmental Constraints WatercourseWatercourseEnvironmental Protection AreaWatercourseWatercourseEnvironmental Protection Area WatercourseLocal RoadConnectivity with Local RoadsLaneway Mid Block ConnectionWatercourseWatercourseWatercourseWatercourseEnvironmental ConstraintWatercourseSWF TrailsTrails
Environmental Protection Area
Watercourse
SWF
Trails
LanewaysRoadsRoadsRoads RoadsRoadsRoadsHigh Density/Mixed Residential High Density/Mixed ResidentialMedium Density Residential Parks and ParkettesParks and ParkettesParks and Parkettes Parks and ParkettesParks NeighbourhoodsArterial A Arterial BArterial CCollector RoadSECSP BoundarySECSP BoundarySECSP BoundarySECSP BoundarySECSP BoundaryRoads Prominent BuildingsRoadsRoads
SECSP Boundary
Roads
SECSP Boundary
Roads
SECSP BoundaryRoads Privately Owned, Publically Accessible Spaces (POPs)Mid Block ConnectionEnvironmental Protection Area WatercourseSECSP BoundaryRoads POPsMid Block ConnectionLanewaysPrivately Owned, Publically Accessible Spaces (POPs)Mid Block Connection
Parks and Parkettes
Neighbourhood Parks
Elementary SchoolSECSP Boundary
Roads Courtice Memorial Park
Elementary School
Elementary School
Elementary School
Elementary School
Elementary
School
Watercourse
Watercourse
SECSP Boundary
Roads
SECSP Boundary
Roads
SECSP Boundary
Roads
Parkettes
Laneways
Privately Owned, Publically Accessible Spaces (POPs)
Mid Block Connection
Mixed Use / High Density Residential
High Density/Mixed Residential
Environmental Protection Area
WatercourseSECSP Boundary
Roads
Medium Density Residential
Medium Density Residential
Environmental Protection Area
Environmental Protection Area
Environmental Protection Area
Watercourse
Watercourse
Watercourse
SECSP Boundary
Roads
SECSP Boundary
Roads
SECSP Boundary
Roads
Prominent Intersection (Primary Node)
Prominent Intersection (Secondary Node)
Low Density Residential
Parks and Parkettes
Parks and Parkettes
Developable Land
Parkland
Parks and Parkettes
Neighbour Prime Agriculture Land
WatercourseSECSP Boundary
Roads
Developable Land
Neighbour Employment Area
Watercourse
WatercourseRoads
SECSP Boundary
SECSP Boundary
Watercourse
SECSP Boundary Developable Land
Area Subject to Environmental Study
Parks and Parkettes Watercourse
SECSP Boundary Developable Land Area Subject to Environmental Study
WatercourseSECSP Boundary
Roads
Developable Land
Neighbour Recommended PSEZ
Dedicated Cycle Lane
On-Street Bike Lane
Environmental Protection Area
Connectivity with Local Roads
Trails
Local Road
Connectivity with Local Roads
Privately Owned, Publically Accessible Spaces (POPs)
Mid Block Connection
59AECOM
Municipality of Clarington Urban Design and Sustainability Guidelines for Southeast Courtice
5.3 Development Adjacent to Natural Heritage
To minimise the impact of development and maintain the integrity of the existing natural environment, leverage the value of real estate and enjoy expansive vistas, it is
necessary to guide the manner of development in the adjacent neighbourhood.
Principle
The interface between urban development and the Natural Heritage System
should consider the sensitivity of the natural area to inform appropriately
designed transitions,vegetation protection zones, and site organization.
Guidelines:
a. Create public access and
views to the Natural Heritage
Network through the appropriate
placement of roads, buildings
and infrastructure, while ensuring
minimal impact to the Natural
Heritage Network.
b. Integrate trails, public parks and
open spaces with the Natural
Heritage System to create
connections, public uses and
support passive recreation. When
amenity spaces are required, these
must be provided in addition to
zones.
c. Locate single loaded roads along
the edge of the Natural Heritage
Network, where feasible.
d. Avoid rear yard back-lotting of
residential units onto the Natural
Heritage Network.
e. Control private access to Natural
Heritage Network by incorporating
boundary fencing, where trails are
not permitted.
f. Integrate active transportation
networks to connect directly from
public streets, bicycle lanes and
sidewalks to trail networks in the
Natural Heritage Network, where
appropriate.
g. Organize site elements so that view
corridors at ground level into natural
heritage features are maintained or
created. These view corridors may
include pedestrian connections to
provide access, if appropriate.Local RoadNatural Heritage Areas
Terraced Buildings to maximise views
Figure 58: Development Adjacent to Natural Heritage - Cross Section
Figure 59: Development Adjacent to Natural Heritage - Plan
Environmental Protection AreaEnvironmental Protection AreaActive Frontage Buildings
Active Frontage Buildings
Environmental Protection AreaEnvironmental Protection Area
Environmental Protection Area
Primary View Corridors Secondary View CorridorsMedium Density CorridorRegional Corridor
Elementary School
School Prominent Intersection (Primary Node)Prominent Intersection (Secondary Node)Gateways
5 Minute Walking Distance
Prominent Intersection (Primary Node)Prominent Intersection (Secondary Node)GatewaysSquares/Civic
Gateways
Squares/Civic
Public Art
Gateways
Public Square
Commercial / RetailProminent BuildingsEnvironmental Study AreaSECSP BoundarySECSP BoundarySECSP BoundarySECSP BoundarySECSP BoundaryEnvironmental Protection Area
Environmental Protection Area
Environmental Constraints WatercourseWatercourseEnvironmental Protection AreaWatercourseWatercourseEnvironmental Protection Area WatercourseLocal RoadConnectivity with Local RoadsLaneway Mid Block ConnectionWatercourse
Watercourse
Watercourse
Watercourse
Environmental ConstraintWatercourseSWF Trails
Trails
Environmental Protection Area
Watercourse
SWF
Trails
LanewaysRoadsRoadsRoads RoadsRoadsRoadsHigh Density/Mixed Residential High Density/Mixed ResidentialMedium Density Residential Parks and ParkettesParks and Parkettes
Parks and Parkettes
Parks and Parkettes
Parks NeighbourhoodsArterial A Arterial BArterial CCollector RoadSECSP BoundarySECSP BoundarySECSP Boundary
SECSP Boundary
SECSP Boundary
Roads
Prominent Buildings
Roads
Roads
SECSP Boundary
Roads
SECSP Boundary
Roads
SECSP Boundary
Roads
Privately Owned, Publically Accessible Spaces (POPs)Mid Block ConnectionEnvironmental Protection Area WatercourseSECSP BoundaryRoads POPsMid Block Connection
Laneways
Privately Owned, Publically Accessible Spaces (POPs)
Mid Block Connection
Parks and Parkettes
Neighbourhood Parks
Elementary SchoolSECSP Boundary
Roads Courtice Memorial Park
Elementary School
Elementary School
Elementary School
Elementary School
Elementary School
Watercourse
Watercourse
SECSP Boundary
Roads
SECSP Boundary
Roads
SECSP Boundary
Roads
Parkettes
Laneways
Privately Owned, Publically Accessible Spaces (POPs)
Mid Block Connection
Mixed Use / High Density Residential
High Density/Mixed Residential
Environmental Protection Area
WatercourseSECSP Boundary
Roads
Medium Density Residential
Medium Density Residential
Environmental Protection Area
Environmental Protection Area
Environmental Protection Area
Watercourse
Watercourse
Watercourse
SECSP Boundary
Roads
SECSP Boundary
Roads
SECSP Boundary
Roads
Prominent Intersection (Primary Node)
Prominent Intersection (Secondary Node)
Low Density Residential
Parks and Parkettes
Parks and Parkettes
Developable Land
Parkland
Parks and Parkettes
Neighbour Prime Agriculture Land
WatercourseSECSP Boundary
Roads
Developable Land
Neighbour Employment Area
Watercourse
WatercourseRoads
SECSP Boundary
SECSP Boundary
Watercourse
SECSP Boundary Developable Land
Area Subject to Environmental Study
Parks and Parkettes Watercourse
SECSP Boundary Developable Land Area Subject to Environmental Study
WatercourseSECSP Boundary
Roads
Developable Land
Neighbour Recommended PSEZ
Dedicated Cycle Lane
On-Street Bike Lane
Environmental Protection Area
Connectivity with Local Roads
Trails
Local Road
Connectivity with Local Roads
Privately Owned, Publically Accessible Spaces (POPs)
Mid Block Connection
AECOM60
Municipality of Clarington Urban Design and Sustainability Guidelines for Southeast Courtice
5.4 Development Adjacent to Parkland
With approximately 15% of the total net developable areas designated parkland distributed across the six neighbourhoods in Southeast Courtice, several housing
forms are located abutting a community park, neighbourhood park or a parkette.
Principle
public and private space while prioritizing public access to the park, providing eyes
on the public space and protecting for maximum sun exposure at key times of the
day and year.
Guidelines:
a. A public right of way or POPs shall
form the interface between private
development and parkland to ensure
that public access to park spaces is
prioritized. Buildings shall front the
street and overlook parks to create
an active frontage.
b. Buildings shall be oriented to
address and frame park spaces, with
primary entrances, front yards and
facade.
c. Rear yard back-lotting shall not be
permitted.
d. Accessibility shall be enhanced
through active transportation
connections including sidewalks,
bicycle paths and mid-block
connections.
e. Parking should not be located
between the park and adjacent
buildings.
f. Buildings should be massed to
maintain maximum sun exposure
onto active park spaces, like playing
g. Retaining walls and/or any other
structures such as planters, fences
and seating walls located within
the proposed development block
should be designed with a minimum
setback from the edge of the
property line to protect from future
maintenance and replacement and
to consider requirements for routine
maintenance and operations such
as snow clearing and mowing.Local RoadParkland
Scenario 2Scenario 1
Residential ResidentialParklandPOPSFigure 60: Development Adjacent to Parkland - Cross Section
Figure 61: Development Adjacent to Parkland - Plan
Environmental Protection AreaEnvironmental Protection AreaActive Frontage Buildings
Active Frontage Buildings
Environmental Protection AreaEnvironmental Protection Area
Environmental Protection Area
Primary View Corridors Secondary View CorridorsMedium Density CorridorRegional Corridor
Elementary School
School Prominent Intersection (Primary Node)Prominent Intersection (Secondary Node)Gateways
5 Minute Walking Distance
Prominent Intersection (Primary Node)Prominent Intersection (Secondary Node)GatewaysSquares/CivicGatewaysSquares/Civic Public Art
Gateways
Public Square
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Privately Owned, Publically Accessible Spaces (POPs)
Mid Block Connection
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61AECOM
Municipality of Clarington Urban Design and Sustainability Guidelines for Southeast Courtice
Municipality of Clarington Urban Design and Sustainability Guidelines for Southeast Courtice
Regional Corridor Multi-wayLanewayMid-block Connection
Public Square/ Private Green
Public Square/ Private Green
Mid-block Connection
Local RoadLanewayMid-Rise ResidentialMid-Rise ResidentialInternal to Neighbourhood
Block width varies between 68-80m
Medium Density Block within the Regional Corridor
Block width 80m
Optimal Block (150m)20m ROW20m ROWFigure 62: Typical Medium Density Residential Block Layout
5.5 Development within the Regional Corridor
The urban structure and massing within Southeast Courtice is predominantly ground related low rise housing forms, and is compatible with the existing residential
areas to the north and west. The Secondary Plan encourages a sensitive increase in density towards the Regional Corridor with maximum density concentration at
the intersection of Courtice Road and Bloor Street. A Modular and gridded development pattern allows high, medium and low density built forms to address and have
access to the public realm, improving pedestrian and vehicular circulation through and between developments.
Figure 63: Built Form and Connectivity along the Regional Arterial
63AECOM
Municipality of Clarington Urban Design and Sustainability Guidelines for Southeast Courtice
Principle
Establish a positive relationship between at-grade uses and the public realm and
create a smooth transition from higher density uses to adjacent low density areas.
Guidelines:
a. Siting & Massing
–Built form of less than 4 storeys shall
not be permitted within 80m of a
major intersection (collector road or
higher designation).
–Higher density built forms with a
mixed use podium shall be located
adjacent to Arterials A (i.e. within
40m of the ROW), with primary
vehicular and servicing access
driveways located along side streets.
Incorporate a step back above 4
wall.
–Mid-block connections should
be provided between 75-100m to
create pedestrian and cycling links
and improve overall site permeability.
Mid block connections shall be a
minimum of 6m to allow for a 2m
walkway with 2m planting beds on
either side to soften the side walls.
–Where landscaping may impact on
sight lines, keep shrubs below 1.0
metre in height above the ground
level and prune trees so that the
lowest branches will be at least 2.0
metres above ground level. Limit any
other landscape features that might
cause obstructions to a maximum
height of 1.0 metre.
b. Spacing between buildings
–The spaces between buildings
provide opportunities for physical
and visual connections. A minimum
15 metre separation distance shall
be provided between buildings to
ensure that active elevations can
be provided on all faces (blank walls
should be avoided);
–Where windows are proposed within
a podium, a minimum separation
distance of 15 metres should
be provided between adjacent
buildings.
–Where there is a transition between
a mid-rise development and tall
building, a minimum separation
distance of 20 metres should
be provided between the tower
component of a tall building and
the nearest part of the mid-rise Intersection Spacing (700m N/S)150m (optimal)Arterial A (Multi-way)Collector RoadCollector RoadLocal RoadLocal Road
Local Road
Local Road
Local Road
Local RoadLocal RoadArterial A (Multi-way)
200m (max)
Intersection Spacing (300-500m E/W)
80m 80m80m 80m80m 80mBuilt form > 4 storeys
Multi-way Service lane
Lower densityHigher density
Municipality of Clarington Urban Design and Sustainability Guidelines for Southeast CourticeFigure 66: Typical Mixed Use/ High Density Residential Block Layout
Regional Corridor Multi-wayLanewayMid-block Connection Mid-block Connection
Local RoadInternal DrivewayMixed-Use
Mixed-Use
Mixed Use
Mixed Use
High Rise Residential
High Rise Residential
High Rise Residential
High Rise Residential
Mid-Rise ResidentialMid-Rise ResidentialInternal to Neighbourhood
Block width varies between 68-80m
Mixed Use/ High Density Residential within the Regional Corridor
Block width 80m
Optimal Block (150m)20m ROW20m ROWOutdoor Spill Out (extension of the public realm)
building to minimize overlook and
overshadowing.
–On sites with multiple buildings, a
minimum separation distance of
15.0 metres should be provided
between buildings that face each
other. This area should be clear
of building projections such as
balconies and cantilevers to allow
sunlight to access the lower levels
of the building. Depending on the
building form wider separation
distances may be appropriate,
especially if there are residential
c. Built Form
–Mixed Use / High Density
Residential blocks shall have taller
buildings with a mixed use podium
located adjacent to Regional
Arterial A (i.e. within 40m of the
ROW). Buildings located to the rear
of the block shall incoporate step
backs of minimum 2m above the
3rd storey, to enhance pedestrian
comfort along the minor road
and facilitate a transition to the
adjacent low density residential
neighbourhood. Retail sections
shall have outdoor Spill Out spaces
that serve as an extension of the
public realm and contribute to
animating the street.
–Medium Density blocks shall have
taller buildings located adjacent
to Regional Arterial A (i.e. within
40m of the ROW) with low rise
apartments or townhouses located
to the rear of the block to facilitate
a transition to the adjacent low
density residential neighbourhood.
–Buildings shall be oriented to front,
face and frame the street with
clearly articulated entrances.
–Vertical articulation should
generally be consistent with the
rhythm of adjacent main street
buildings or façades.The street
wall of buildings on the Avenues
should be designed to create a
comfortable yet highly animated
pedestrian environment utilizing a
rhythm of multiple retail frontages
architecturally articulated through
materials, numerous entrances,
display windows, canopies and
signage.
–Where retail at grade is not required,
and residential uses are permitted,
4.5m shall be provided to allow for
conversion to retail uses.
d. Stepbacks & Setbacks
–Special design standards will be
uses to ensure that there is a
suitable transition from the public
sidewalk to private residential units;
that landscaping and other design
features are used to augment
this transition zone; and active
entrances to residential uses
assist in animating the frontage.
The setback beyond the sidewalk
shall accomodate front steps,
a raised planter and a porch/
the residential units shall be raised
between a minimum of 0.9 metres
to a maximum of 1.2 metres above
the sidewalk level as measured
from the base of the front steps.
metres. The change in grade could
also be achieved through a false
–In special circumstances where
civic or public spaces are desired,
additional setbacks may be
encouraged.
–Building facades internal to all
blocks within the Regional Corridor
shall feature step-backs (compliant
with the 45° angular plan analysis)
to ensure good access to light,
venilation and privacy while
achieving a variation in massing,
scale and treatment to create an
interesting building envelop.
–Side step-backs of upper storeys
shall be incorporated to reduce the
height of blank sidewalls.
–Mechanical penthouses may
exceed the maximum height limit
by up to 5 metres but may not
penetrate any angular planes.
Figure 67: Built Form Transition within a Mixed Use / High Density BlockRegional Arterial (Multi-way)3-6 storey residential building7-12 storey mixed-use buildingLocal RoadLanewaySingle Family HomeTownhouseLocal Road