You can spend the time up front talking to stakeholders, hearing their issues or you can barge ahead and then do damage control by trying to persuade neighbours and Councillors to overlook its shortcomings. I believe that any development has to fit into its environment and be a positive addition to all parties.

It usually takes only a small adjustment to a plan to enhance its local environment so that it will be positive for the community.  It is only by investing that effort up front that you reap a large reward at the completion.

This philosophy has allowed me to successfully get so many projects through Council or Appeal Boards over the years. With 6 years in Council and chairing several Boards and then 10 years since in practice,  I have learned what information is required for Council to make good informed decisions.