I was once opposed to the concept of lot splitting, for similar reasons as some Edmonton residents express here.

But the City of Richmond BC, under pressure from developers, allowed new houses to be built almost to the side lot line,  and also allowed for massive set-backs.  These setbacks are popular for three car garages, and the City allows almost the entire front yard to be paved.
 
Now new build  homes dominate the lot.  The zoning for the property neighbouring us is  almost 5000 sq feet. It will sell for three million upwards. This is typical in the neighbourhood.

When completed, the house may be occupied for only part of the year, or not at all.  It is guaranteed to be under-occupied for the five bedrooms.

Far better that two homes be built.  There would be no difference to set-back or how far away the houses are to property lines.

In insisting that lots not be subdividable, Edmonton neighbourhoods should be careful what they wish for.