The Ontario Land Tribunal (OLT) has given the green light to the contentious expansion of the Nelson Aggregates quarry, despite opposition from the City of Burlington, environmental groups, and local residents. This decision paves the way for the company to move forward with the project.
Situated in rural north Burlington, the quarry is located between Cedar Springs Road and Guelph Line on 2 Sideroad, close to the Mount Nemo Conservation Area within the Niagara Escarpment, a UNESCO biosphere reserve that hosts a diverse array of plant and animal species.
Following the approval, city officials and project opponents expressed disappointment and renewed concerns about the expansion. The OLT, in its ruling, stated that Nelson had adequately addressed the raised issues by the City, the Region, and CORE/PERL.
CORE/PERL, one of the opposing groups, voiced being “extremely disappointed” with the approval. They highlighted that the expansion could lead to hazardous air emissions, endanger drinking water, and expose individuals to unregulated blasting and flyrock.
David Donnelly, an environmental lawyer representing CORE/PERL, emphasized the importance of scrutinizing Nelson’s evidence and the credibility of the approval process. He pointed out the Auditor General’s reports highlighting shortcomings in the monitoring and enforcement of regulations by the Ministry of Natural Resources (MNR).
Burlington Mayor Marianne Meed Ward expressed dissatisfaction with the outcome, citing concerns over potential impacts on the environment, wildlife, groundwater, the community, and residents living near the quarry. The city is evaluating the decision with legal experts and technical staff to determine available options for addressing the situation.
Residents and community advocates, who have long been engaged in safeguarding the Mount Nemo area, received appreciation from Meed Ward for their dedicated efforts. The city will review the tribunal’s decision thoroughly to assess the implications on timing, implementation, enforcement, and future involvement.
The decision spells disappointment for nearby residents and the rural community, who have persistently raised worries about groundwater, environmental conservation, and the project’s effects. Ward 3 Coun. and deputy mayor of the environment Rory Nisan acknowledged the community’s impact and vowed to collaborate in charting the way forward as they navigate the aftermath of the tribunal’s ruling. CBC News has reached out to Nelson Aggregates for their response.