Stephen Bedford

With over 40 years of experience in community planning across Canada, Stephen has worked as a development planner and municipal executive, facilitating the approval of a wide range of residential, industrial, commercial, and institutional projects. His extensive expertise allows him to effectively collaborate with municipal staff and councils to secure development approvals.

Stephen’s extensive experience has allowed him to anticipate changes in planning legislation while crafting compelling development applications and presentations for various stakeholders. His deep knowledge enables him to analyze historical By-Laws, identify relevant precedents, and leverage them to advance development proposals and establish legal non-conforming uses. Additionally, Stephen has authored several Planning Justification Rationales, providing a strong foundation and solid justification for numerous projects in various municipalities.

Stephen has successfully led the implementation of numerous Agricultural, Agriculture-Related, and On-Farm Diversified land uses, playing a pivotal role in advancing the agricultural sector of the Niagara Region. His expertise has enabled the development and integration of prosperous agricultural businesses, which have supported the growth and sustainability of local farming communities. Through strategic planning and effective collaboration with stakeholders, Stephen has facilitated the expansion of existing agricultural operations, fostering economic development while preserving the region’s rural character. His contributions have had a lasting impact on enhancing the region’s agricultural infrastructure and positioning it for future success.

With a robust background in community planning and a collaborative approach, Stephen excels at finding innovative solutions to development challenges, even when obstacles seem insurmountable. His expertise in community-based strategic planning, which emphasizes stakeholder participation, drives effective action and success in land development projects. Stephen is a proud member of the Canadian Institute of Planners (MCIP) and the Ontario Professional Planners Institute (RPP).

Some of Stephen’s recent projects and senior planning roles include:

Gale Crescent

• Approval of high-density infill apartment development in downtown St. Catharines

River Road

• Approval of high-density boutique apartment condominium development in Niagara Falls

South Pond and Iron Horse Ranch

• Approval of agri-tourism uses in the City of Kawartha Lakes

Niagara-on-the-Lake

• Approval of infill residential subdivisions
• Approval of additions to existing agricultural uses including Agriculture-Related uses and On-Farm Diversified Uses.