The Land Evaluation and Area Review (LEAR) is a study that is completed to examine the location of prime agricultural areas. The United Counties of Leeds and Grenville is undertaking this study based on its commitment to do so within it’s Official Plan. When the Counties’ adopted their Official Plan in 2015, it was modified by the Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing in 2016 to include a policy that would require the undertaking of a LEAR study or equivalent.
The draft mapping has now been released and is available for viewing at https://www.leedsgrenville.com/en/government/agriculture-area-review.aspx.
A copy of the draft report that was prepared ahead of the mapping exercise, go here: https://www.leedsgrenville.com/en/government/resources/Documents/PublicWorks/Planning-Services---General/Draft-LEAR-Evaluation-Report-for-Public-Consultation_17-May-2023.pdf.
Once the draft report was prepared, draft mapping was prepared and is now open for comment. To view the map, please go here: https://www.leedsgrenville.com/en/government/resources/Documents/PublicWorks/Planning-Services---General/Agricultural-Area-Review/PRIME-RECOMMENDATION---North-Grenville-OVERLAY-28-Sep-2023.pdf.
Comments on the draft report are being accepted until October 30, although they can be provided after that date. The final report has not yet been completed. It is anticipated that following the current consultation period, a final report will be brought to Counties’ Council for review. If you have any questions about the process, please contact Elaine Mallory at