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New developments have traditionally been required to build a minimum number of off-street parking stalls. This can lead to more land being turned into parking stalls than what is actually needed, especially in the downtown core where there are more options to walk, roll, or take transit. This amendment means developers can build the number of parking spaces they expect will be needed for the specific site. There is built-in economic pressure to get it right, since extra parking spaces cost more to build, but developments with insufficient parking will be harder to sell or lease.

This bylaw is for the Sandstone development, which proposes to build 2200 housing units in addition to substantial commercial and industrial space along Cedar Road. It is the development of previously undeveloped land (also known as a greenfield site) with environmentally sensitive areas including large stands of trees and wetlands. Virtually all major international climate, planning and environmental organizations strongly advise against greenfield urban development. Developing natural and environmentally sensitive areas is harmful. It contributes to climate change, as significant carbon is released by disturbing natural areas and by the loss of the natural cooling services that forests and wetlands provide. However, it was designated as a key urban node in the ReImagine Nanaimo plan, likely in recognition of the need for more housing and industrial land in Nanaimo. The development report identifies that park dedication will be a minimum of 36% of the area of the properties and supports reconciliation. However, due to the significant impact on existing greenspace and transportation, it is a climate step backwards, as many people living at Sandstone will need to drive to and from central Nanaimo and lost forests and wetlands take centuries to replace.