Help Shape the Future of Cowan Heights Neighbourhood

Official title: Cowan Heights Neighbourhood Plan

Open Community Planning Housing & Communities Transportation
St. John's is creating a neighbourhood plan for Cowan Heights that will guide housing, parks, and transit development for years to come. The plan proposes higher-density housing near Topsail Road, upgrades to beloved parks like Kitty Gaul and Cowan Park, and better walking and cycling connections. It's now heading to Council for approval.

Why This Matters

Live in Cowan Heights? This plan decides what gets built next door. It could mean more apartments, townhouses, and shops within walking distance. Your favourite parks and trails are getting upgrades too. If you've got opinions about traffic, housing costs, or where your kids play, now's the time to speak up.

What Could Change

The Village Shopping Centre area could see taller mixed-use buildings with housing above shops. Blackmarsh Road may get medium and high-density residential development once water and sewer lines are extended. Zoning changes would allow townhouses and apartments in areas currently limited to single-family homes.

Key Issues

  • Should higher-density housing be concentrated near the Village Shopping Centre transit hub?
  • How should Kitty Gaul Park and Cowan Park be upgraded to meet changing recreation needs?
  • What improvements are needed for trails, accessibility, and wayfinding?
  • Should tot lots be converted to passive recreation spaces for all ages?

How to Participate

  1. Review the Cowan Heights Neighbourhood Plan and the Neighbourhood Strategy Map to understand the proposed changes.
  2. Read the Phase 1 What We Heard Report and Phase 2 What We Heard Report to see what residents have already said.
  3. Contact the project team at engage@stjohns.ca or call (709) 576-8510 with questions or feedback.

Submit Your Input

Draft Email

Key Documents