New provincial requirements detail that employment (industrial) lands can only be converted to other uses through a "Municipal Comprehensive Review." A conversion analysis has been undertaken by the City of Hamilton reviewing several areas where conversion of employment land may potentially be appropriate. The analysis of potential conversion areas is detailed in the Employment Land Conversion Analysis Site/ Area Selection Process Report.
The findings of the conversion report along with other employment land related studies were originally presented to the Economic Development & Planning Committee on March 18, 2008. A series of Public Information Open Houses were later held in April 2008. On June 23, 2008, the results of the public consultations and updates to the employment land related studies were presented to the Committee of the Whole. The Focusing on Employment Lands presentation, detailed updated results of all the employment land and related studies as well as next steps.
Also on June 23, 2008 planning staff presented new draft Employment Land Policies and Zones to the Economic Development and Planning Committee. The report presented an analysis of the key issues and approach to planning for employment lands. Over the next few months staff intend to consult the public, land owners and various other stakeholders on the draft policies/zones and report back to Committee with any revisions plus present draft zone mapping in October 2008.