Over the next 23 years, Peel will be adding the equivalent of a city the size of Hamilton to the region, says Adrian Smith, acting director of growth management for the Region of Peel.

“All three municipalities should expect to see significant growth,” Smith told a group of 35 people who attended an open house in Brampton on Thursday night, Feb. 15. But, he added that creating complete communities is a fundamental aspect of the planning process.

In the past, Smith said Peel has taken a linear approach to planning. But now, as the region plans for the addition of 500,000 more residents in Brampton, Caledon and Mississauga, the region is taking a more integrated approach.

The official plan provides a framework for guiding decisions on growth and development as related to the environment, natural resources, employment, health and housing. The plan must be reviewed every five years to conform to provincial plans.

Mark Head, the Region of Peel’s manager of research and analysis said the turnout at the other public events was good — with 70 to 80 people attending the Caledon open house Feb. 13 and another 50 attending the Mississauga open house Feb. 12.

The financial aspect of planning for growth is a key driver, Smith added, and the official plan includes $9 billion in spending, including $6 billion in new infrastructure. Peel will also be updating its development charges bylaw to ensure “growth pays for growth.”

As part of official plan update, Smith said Peel is also developing a Long-Range Transportation Plan and a Water and Wastewater Master Plan, which includes $4 million in spending.

“It’s the biggest part of the pie,” added Smith in reference to the water and wastewater plan. “But, it’s an important part of infrastructure.”

In addition to population forecasts, the official plan also has employment forecasts included as part of the planning process. Getting people to work and back home is an important aspect, Sabbir Saiyed, manager of transportation system planning.

However, with the provincial announcement not to proceed with the GTA west corridor highway, Smith said the Region of Peel has cancelled the statutory meeting scheduled for Thursday, Feb. 22, to allow staff time to review the province’s decision. A new meeting date will be announced.