Retired Municipal Planner Speaks Up

One of the biggest challenges faced by land-use planners, whether they are on the policy or the development side is balancing public use with the needs set aside for the private sector. As a city grows and re-develops the need for public space reserved for recreation increases, particularly since high density is dictated by provincial policy. We need to act now to preserve the green spaces that are remaining. Not only are green spaces necessary for our mental health, they are valuable resources for tourism. What brings people to cities is not only its cultural and commercial attractions, its art galleries, museums, concert halls, cafés restaurants, retail and service outlets but also its natural environment. Its rivers, ponds, trails parks, and green spaces are as essential to its survival and vitality. Guelph is no exception. We are currently experiencing an unprecedented growth. But unfortunately, we seem to be lagging behind in setting aside public recreational lands. Council recently unanimously voted to preserve the built aspects of the OR grounds, but also the use of the property. While some development of the lands is both inevitable and desirable, so too is the need to set aside as much land as possible for the purposes of ecological education, farmers’ markets, community gardens and many more uses. The trails and ponds provide a healing connection with nature that has been so important, particularly throughout the pandemic.

The superintendent’s house would lend itself to an interpretive centre and a space for community gatherings and seminars. The main entrance and driveway, lined with mature trees and its iconic dry stone walls, would provide an excellent access to this venue. I would recommend that counsel set aside approximately 70 acres which is a relatively small fraction of the entire site for such public use.

I have over the past few years had the opportunity to take walks along its trails, to educate others as to its history and to enjoy the flora and fauna. This property is dear to my heart and my wish is that we should do everything in our power to create an ecological park for future generations.