Residential trends in Newmarket are shifting from suburban growth to urban intensification and redevelopment.  Concerns have been raised regarding the compatibility of new homes or additions to existing homes that comply with the current zoning by-law regulations but are considered to be out of character with the built form of the established neighbourhoods in which they are located. One of the fundamental objectives of planning and zoning is to ensure compatibility between properties and land uses.  Compatibility is achieved in part by regulating land use and built form. 

In response to this issue the Town has embarked on a process to study Established Neighbourhoods in Newmarket. The goal of this study is to develop an Official Plan Amendment identifying Newmarket neighbourhoods based on the existing characteristics and implement policies that are reflective of the built form to guide new infill residential dwellings and additions to dwellings; addressing community character and compatibility.

Nobody knows neighbourhoods better than those who are living in them. As such, the Study contemplates a number of Public Engagement opportunities to enable residents to provide input and comments in a meaningful way.