The sale of a property in East Hawkesbury for commercial development has raised concerns from nearby residents.
On March 19, 2024, East Hawkesbury council accepted an offer to purchase 1.13 hectares of surplus municipal land located at Lot 14, Concession 2, which is between the intersection of Concession Road 1 and County Road 14, and the Highway 417 interchange (Exit 5). On April 11, 2023 council had approved a resolution to have the land appraised and sold.
The land is currently zoned highway commercial, and one of the permitted uses under that zoning designation is a gas station. Area residents, and environmental organization Eco East are concerned how a commercial establishment like a gas station on the land could affect local water, wildlife, and the visitors’ enjoyment of nearby Voyageur Provincial Park.
Riden said trees are already being cut down on the property. He said one of the residents found a fox den on the land.
“I know clear-cutting for agricultural purposes does not have many checks and balances, but considering this property is right beside Hughes Creek, that runs directly in Voyageur Park and empties into softshell turtle habitat, not to mention neighbouring residents require wells for their water, it seems there hasn’t been as much assessment or public consultation as there should be,” Riden said.
One of the residents, who wishes to remain anonymous, has sent a letter to East Hawkesbury council outlining the various environmental and health concerns about a possible gas station development on the land. Those include increased traffic, deforestation, disruption to wildlife, light and noise pollution, and health concerns due to gasoline fumes.
According to East Hawkesbury Chief Administrative Officer Luc Lalonde, there is not yet confirmation that a gas station will indeed be constructed on the land. As of Wednesday, May 8, the township did not have any information about what the property owner is planning to build on the site, and any plans the owner does have for the land must be outlined in a site plan.
“Any commercial development requires the developer to enter into a site plan agreement with the township,” Lalonde said.
Lalonde said while the site plan agreement is being developed, the township’s consultant will determine if an environmental assessment is required before any project on the site may proceed.
Photos of land being cleared by James Morgan
