Town of Souris Notice of Public Meeting for Zoning Amendment Request

Subject: Amendments to Land Use Bylaw concerning PID 102137 located behind Hope St and MacPhee Ave.

An application has been made to the Town to change the zoning of PID 102137 from Low Density Residential (R1) to Medium Density Residential (R2). The rezoning application has been made for the purpose of enabling up to a 90-lot residential subdivision.

A meeting will be held May 21, 2026 at 6:30pm at the Silver Threads Club, 78 Main Street, Souris, to receive comments from the public on the proposed amendment to the Land Use Bylaw – Zoning Map.

Written comments to be received until May 22nd at 4:00pm

Town of Souris – Zoning Request Update & Community Information

We’ve heard the concerns being shared regarding the proposed zoning amendment for the property behind MacPhee Avenue and Hope Street, and we wanted to take a moment to provide some clarity and context.

Firstly, it is important to note that this land is already zoned R1 (Low-Density Residential) and has been for many years. It has also been on the market for some time, meaning residential development has always been a possibility on this site.

The current proposal is to change the zoning to R2 (Medium-Density Residential), which allows for a slightly wider range of housing options — not high-density development. Details outlining the differences between R1 and R2 were shared with nearby residents as part of the notification process.

We also understand that many residents have been informally using this area as green space. While that is appreciated, it is important to recognize that this is privately owned land, not designated public parkland.

That said, the local developer behind this proposal has expressed a vision of creating a high-quality residential subdivision that includes green spaces, walking trails, and thoughtful design. While specific development plans are not approved at the zoning stage, this provides some insight into the intended direction.

Environmental concerns are also an important part of this discussion. The Town’s Land Use Bylaw (Section 19) includes provisions and standards to help protect environmentally sensitive areas such as wetlands and watercourses. In addition, due to the complexity of this file, the Town has engaged a professional planner/consultant to assist with the review process.

It’s also worth noting that more detailed environmental review typically occurs at the development stage, and projects involving provincial or federal funding would require formal environmental assessment at that time.

As noted above – A public meeting is scheduled for May 21st at 6:30pm at the Silver Threads Club, 78 Main Street, as part of this process, where more detailed information will be shared. This will also provide an opportunity for residents to ask questions, share feedback, and have their concerns heard directly.

Public input is an important part of this process, and all comments and concerns will be taken into consideration as Planning Advisory Board and Council review the application.

We encourage residents to stay informed, ask questions, and be part of the conversation.

Click Here for a link to the Town of Souris Land Use Bylaw.

Section 7 outlines Low-Density (R1) zone

Section 8 outlines Medium-Density (R2) zone

Section 19 outlines subdivision provisions