The impact of city-wide rezoning in Calgary

Calgarians got a first look at the impacts of city-wide rezoning, approved by council last year, in a briefing from administration Thursday.

The update comes off a strong year, in which construction on more than 20,000 units got underway — the most across the country, and in the city’s history.

All types of housing saw significant growth in that area, with more than half coming from high-density units.

An area that’s seen the largest impact of city-wide rezoning so far is the community of Bowness.

A map released by the city shows areas where development permits were received that would have previously needed a land use amendment.

It’s drawing concern from the area councillor, who says she feels residents’ voices aren’t at the forefront.

“I think it’s really important for members of the community to speak to land use,” said Coun. Sonya Sharp. ” There’s certain applications that, you look at them case-by-case — yes, they should be approved or maybe some shouldn’t be approved, and people should be amenable to persuation.”

Even with land use amendments, applicants are required to give residents two opportunities to share their thoughts before submitting a development permit.

“But, we’re only seeing the beginning of this. This is just a moment in time. I would say ‘Has it even been a year? No, it’s August,'” Sharp said.

The increase in development doesn’t mean Calgary’s housing crisis has been solved; 87,000 people moved to the city last year.

The city says there is still a gap between population growth and the amount of housing available.