The Village of Cumberland has officially updated its Official Community Plan (OCP), adopting key changes aimed at guiding future development. The new OCP was finalized and approved on January 12, 2026, following extensive community consultations.
Cumberland’s Revamped Official Community Plan
The revamped OCP outlines a vision for the village that emphasizes sustainable growth, food security, and community involvement. Mayor Vickey Brown highlighted the collaborative effort involved in shaping the plan, stating, “Cumberland’s new OCP truly encapsulates what Cumberland is all about.”
Community Involvement
The formulation of the OCP involved significant input from local residents and businesses. Community members participated in various ways, including:
- Attending open houses
- Participating in online meetings
- Completing surveys
- Submitting written comments
- Engaging in public hearings
Key Features of the New Plan
Several important highlights were included in the new OCP:
- Urban Containment Boundary: This measure aims to curb urban sprawl by defining a specified area for growth.
- Greenhouse Gas Reduction Targets: The plan sets ambitious goals for lowering emissions.
- Freshwater Land Use Designation: This will cover bodies of water such as Comox Lake and Maple Lake.
- Local Food Security Integration: Strategies to incorporate local food initiatives into emergency planning are introduced.
- Development Guidelines: The plan designates areas for residential, commercial, and industrial developments.
Housing and Development Changes
With a focus on housing, the OCP addresses a projected community need for 1,350 units over the next 20 years. Notably, guidelines have been created to:
- Facilitate infill housing by allowing up to four dwelling units per lot.
- Eliminate the need for a Development Permit for smaller infill projects.
- Designate specific areas for varied forms of industrial and commercial development.
Agricultural Considerations
Although Cumberland is outside the provincial Agricultural Land Reserve, the OCP supports innovative agricultural practices. These include:
- Hydroponics and aeroponics
- Aquaponics and container gardening with imported soil
- Vertical and greenhouse farming methods
Heritage Conservation
Preservation of Cumberland’s heritage is also emphasized in the new plan. Updated guidelines for Heritage Conservation Areas aim to:
- Protect the character of existing heritage structures.
- Ensure new developments enhance the downtown commercial core.
The comprehensive 222-page OCP document is available for public access on the El-Balad website, including detailed maps showcasing designated areas for development and conservation.
