Environmental advocates are raising concerns about an upcoming development project in northeast Pickering, with the city council set to vote on a preliminary plan on March 30. Deputy Mayor David Pickles emphasized the importance of finalizing environmental assessments and a fiscal impact study to move forward with the development plan, noting that adjustments may be made based on study outcomes.
The proposed development area spans from Eighth Concession Road to the north, Highway 7 to the south, Westney Road to the west, and Lake Ridge Road to the east. The city is currently conducting a study to evaluate the region’s natural features and develop strategies to minimize the project’s environmental impact.
Some advocates argue that the approval of the plan should wait until after the completion of these studies, while others advocate for abandoning the development entirely due to concerns related to flood risk, water quality, and the conservation of an endangered fish species in the area.
Specifically, advocates are calling for more transparency regarding flood risk mitigation plans for northeast Pickering. The region falls within the Carruthers Creek watershed, which is crucial for water drainage in the area. Recent studies by the Toronto and Region Conservation Authority (TRCA) have revealed a potential 113% increase in peak flows during storms, highlighting the need for effective stormwater management strategies to combat flooding and protect water quality.
Additionally, preliminary strategies to manage stormwater and groundwater have been proposed in a Phase 2 report commissioned by the city. These strategies aim to mitigate adverse effects on natural habitats and water resources, ensuring that development can proceed sustainably with proper implementation of environmental protection measures.
Concerns also extend to the preservation of the Redside Dace, an endangered fish species inhabiting the proposed development site. The Carruthers Creek area hosts one of the main populations of Redside Dace, prompting worries about the species’ survival amidst ongoing development projects. Efforts are underway to study the potential impacts of land use changes on the Redside Dace habitat and implement measures to safeguard the species, including stormwater management and runoff control strategies.
As the city continues its planning process, ongoing collaboration with environmental organizations and adherence to sustainable development practices will be essential in addressing these concerns and ensuring the long-term environmental health of northeast Pickering.