Ontario Premier Doug Ford has announced plans to reinstate environmental protections on two sites in Ajax, Ontario, that were previously slated for development. The sites, located at 765 and 775 Kingston Road East, were listed for sale by the developers who own the land, without disclosure to the government. Premier Ford criticized this move, stating that it contradicts the government’s efforts to provide more affordable housing options.
The Greenbelt, established in 2005, serves to protect agricultural and environmentally sensitive lands in the Greater Golden Horseshoe area from development. However, last year, the government removed 2,995 hectares of land on 15 sites from the Greenbelt to create space for 50,000 homes. This decision came under scrutiny in a recent report by the province’s auditor general, revealing close ties between property developers and the government, and prompting the resignation of the housing minister’s chief of staff. The Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) is also considering investigating the matter.
Premier Ford did not mention the name of the company involved, nor did he explicitly state that the land would be returned to the Greenbelt. However, he did mention that his government is exploring options to reinstate the sites. He also issued a warning to other property owners, stating that if they fail to meet the government’s conditions, including showing substantial progress by the end of the year and having a plan to commence construction by 2025, their land may also be returned to the Greenbelt.
Ontario First Nations leaders continue to express their opposition to the Greenbelt land swap. It remains to be seen how the situation will unfold and what actions will be taken to address the issues raised in the auditor general’s report.
In conclusion, Premier Ford’s announcement indicates a shift in the government’s stance on the development of the Greenbelt sites in Ajax, with a potential return to environmental protections. This decision comes in the wake of criticism and controversy surrounding the influence of property developers on the Greenbelt’s expansion. The government’s actions highlight its commitment to strike a balance between housing affordability and environmental sustainability.
