The Ontario Land Tribunal (OLT) has given the green light to the contentious expansion proposal of the Nelson Aggregates quarry, disregarding opposition from the City of Burlington, environmental organizations, and local residents. The quarry is situated in the rural north of Burlington, close to the Mount Nemo Conservation Area on the Niagara Escarpment, a UNESCO biosphere reserve housing numerous plant and animal species. Despite the disappointment expressed by city officials and project opponents, the approval paves the way for Nelson Aggregates to proceed with the project.
Nelson Aggregates expressed satisfaction with the decision, stating that it will enable the company to provide high-quality aggregate for the growing region while yielding long-term community and environmental benefits. The OLT justified its ruling by stating that Nelson had adequately addressed concerns raised by various parties, including the City, the Region, and CORE/PERL.
CORE/PERL, a group opposing the expansion, voiced extreme disappointment at the approval, citing concerns about air emissions, water safety, and blasting risks. David Donnelly, an environmental lawyer representing CORE/PERL, emphasized the lack of trust in Nelson and the Ministry of Natural Resources (MNR) to ensure public safety, referring to critical reports by the Auditor General regarding compliance with regulations.
Burlington Mayor Marianne Meed Ward expressed regret over the outcome, reiterating the city’s commitment to protecting the environment and community. The city plans to review the tribunal’s decision with legal and technical experts to assess available options. Meanwhile, Nelson Aggregates outlined its rehabilitation plan for the land post-extraction, emphasizing the creation of parkland and open space for public use.
