Calgary’s new blanket rezoning program could see its fate determined in court on December 11, Postmedia reported.

A Court of King’s Bench judge set that date after scheduling a recent special half-day hearing into the case. Opponents are seeking to quash the bylaw that is the pulse of the rezoning program.

“We’re all elated the judicial review is as quick as it is,” Robert Lehodey, a lawyer who is one of the opposition group’s leaders. “We are cautiously optimistic we will win the day on Dec. 11.”

The rezoning bylaw allows homeowners to rezone single-family homes into other low-density housing forms like row houses and duplexes without having to obtain approval for the revised land use.

Richard Harrison, the opponents’ lawyer, previously told the court the new bylaw was already triggering development applications,

Nearly 300 people have signed onto the legal challenge, contending the bylaw threatens the character of neighbourhoods and was pushed through by councillors with predetermined positions.

The legal challenge follows Calgary’s longest-ever public hearing last spring, which saw over 5,000 written submissions and 736 people presenting their views to city council. Seventy per cent of participants opposed the blanket rezoning, citing concerns over property values, infrastructure strain, and school capacity.

City council voted 9-6 in May to approve the new rezoning policy, which took effect in August. Proponents argue the changes are necessary to address Calgary’s housing shortage and improve affordability.

If it is allowed to stand, the revised bylaw will enable the city to reorganize zones across the city.

As a result of council’s approval, the city now permits the rezoning of all residential areas that had only allowed for single or semi-detached homes.

The Calgary Real Estate Board opposes the rezoning program.