ZoneSJ sets requirements for developers to provide ‘amenity spaces’ for residents. See ZoneSJ page 52 (PDF page 69).

Why this is important. Amenity spaces may increase livability and the desirability of urban living, which is important to intensification efforts and overall quality of life.

However, the burden placed on developers to provide amenity spaces is a potential dis-incentive for development, as it increases the cost and complexity of that development.

What ZoneSJ gets right. By identifying an issue important to residents of multi-unit dwellings, ZoneSJ focuses appropriately on quality of life and desirability of residential stock.

Issues and opportunities. There’s a justification for modifying this for the Uptown. It has been argued that the entire Uptown, with its public spaces, services, bars and restaurants is an amenity space.

Cheat sheet for your feedback. If you want to provide feedback on this issue, feel free to use or edit the statement below:

Please reduce or eliminate the requirement for amenity spaces in residential developments in the Uptown area, as the neighbourhood already provides lots of social and recreational opportunities.

The deadline for your feedback to the City on ZoneSJ is Friday November 29th. Submit your input to (via webform, or in writing to planning@saintjohn.ca). And copy your councillors.