Residents in the hamlet of Garden Hill, north of Port Hope, say a proposed subdivision on Ganaraska Road threatens their water security, contravenes local zoning bylaws, and sets a dangerous precedent for development on protected land.
The development, proposed for 3852 Ganaraska Road, was rejected earlier this year by the Ontario Land Tribunal because the property lies within a provincially protected Area of Natural and Scientific Interest, or ANSI. But before that ruling was released, resident Richard Yoshida says the developer hired a lobbyist who successfully influenced the Ministry of Natural Resources to redraw the ANSI boundary – without following required public or Indigenous consultation procedures.
Yoshida added, “Now developers all across Ontario can cite this precedent to build on protected land. Corporations win – citizens and our heritage lose.”
Yoshida adds the subdivision proposal includes a multi-unit apartment building, something Port Hope bylaws prohibit in that area, and calls the municipality’s inaction “ludicrous.”
His biggest concern, however, is the community’s water supply.
Yoshida says there’s a real possibility existing wells could dry out.
Residents say they’re calling for a long-term aquifer study and greater transparency around provincial land protection policies.
A public meeting to discuss the issues and next steps will be held at the Canton Hub on Wednesday, December 3, from 6:30 to 8:45 p.m., and everyone is welcome to attend.
(Written by: Joseph Goden)
