Successful densification: a question of urban form

Since the 1950s, urban planning bylaws have been used extensively in Quebec to regulate land use. They were initially designed to separate uses in different zones, to keep factories away from residences, protect farmland and natural environments from development, set aside areas for businesses and so on. Today, the result is segregated territories where functions are far apart and everything is organized around automobile travel.

In recent years, the movement for a new urbanism has seen a return to local living environments in which people can live with less and less dependence on the car. This movement has been reinforced by environmental and social concerns, making densification a hot topic. At both global and local levels, the aim is to reduce the ecological footprint and the production of greenhouse gases (GHGs) by building more compact, resilient cities.

In order to meet reduction targets, a large proportion of cities and municipalities are trying to change lifestyles to encourage active travel such as walking and cycling, notably through densification. Neighborhoods are being built closer together, where it’s pleasant to walk and where everyday services are close at hand.

In Quebec, we’re already familiar with this type of development. Just look at the towns and villages that date back to the 19th century, where businesses, shops and schools are close together and walking is encouraged.

However, to encourage more coherent development and achieve successful densification, municipalities need to equip themselves with modern planning tools that are adapted to their contexts. It’s time to rethink the regulatory practice of zoning, as well as that of other bylaws, by proposing creative and innovative uses for existing tools.

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