Hamilton is a city of many communities: diverse by nature of geography and history; united by a common future. Hamilton has a vision for its future – a vision for a vibrant, healthy, sustainable city. The vision, known as Vision 2020, has been shared by citizens, businesses, community groups, organizations and our local government since 1992.
An Official Plan is a guiding document – its goals and policies move the City towards achieving its visions for the future – visions that are expressed both through Vision 2020 and the City’s Strategic Plan. The Official Plan provides direction and guidance on the management of our communities, land use change and physical development over the next 30 years. The physical development of the City effects and is affected by environmental, social and economic factors; therefore, the decisions we make about our future development directly contribute to the achievement of our vision. This Plan and the policies contained herein implement many of the principles expressed by Vision 2020 and the City’s Strategic Plan.
The policies of this Plan express and enable change and transformation. Our challenge lies in implementing change and transforming the City while balancing and respecting the sense of place, history and culture that makes Hamilton a special place to live, visit and experience.