Development industry group presents 22-point infill action plan for Edmonton

Developers are trying to reset the conversation around contentious infill housing in Edmonton. CTV News Edmonton's Jeremy Thompson reports.

Home developers in Edmonton say it’s time for a reset on the conversation around infill housing.

Bild Edmonton Metro presented an infill action plan on Thursday at a luncheon for developers and community leaders.

The industry group believes the plan can alleviate community concerns while accelerating infill projects.

The 22-point plan outlines short-, medium- and long-term goals for improving construction standards and communication with neighbours.

It also suggests changes to make design, permitting and building more efficient.

Bild says an improved permitting process within a year will help builders keep up with demand, and that longer-term a better inspection process could ensure higher-quality housing.

“Everybody that’s involved in this plan wants predictability,” Sydney Bond, with Bild Edmonton Metro, said Thursday as the action plan was unveiled. “We need consistency, then neighbours know what to expect, builders know what they’re going to do, and that’s just like the source to a lot of the solutions here.”

City councillor Reed Clarke wants to see consistent enforcement, and that would mean more money for bylaw officers.

“What’s the point of having policies and bylaws if you don’t have the people and the means to enforce them?” Clarke said Thursday.

Later this month, city council will vote on proposed changes to infill rules, including a maximum height reduction.

With files from CTV News Edmonton’s Jeremy Thompson