Town disappointed by Ontario Land Tribunal’s decision to allow construction of asphalt plant
Town of Caledon disappointed by Ontario Land Tribunal’s decision to allow construction of asphalt plant
October 4, 2022 – The Ontario Land Tribunal (OLT) has approved land use changes that allow MJJJ Developments to open and operate an asphalt plant on Coleraine Drive in Bolton – despite numerous attempts by the Town to appeal the decision.
The Town, neighbouring businesses and residents rejected the proposed asphalt plant when the project was introduced in 2018 due to environmental concerns and impacts to residents. When the OLT approved zoning changes for the plant in 2021, Council unanimously passed a resolution to take the steps necessary to appeal the decision. This appeal was denied – as have numerous subsequent appeals. The OLT’s decision is now final and allows the plant to be built.
“I’m incredibly disappointed in the OLT’s decision,” said Mayor Allan Thompson. “I assure Caledon residents that Members of Council and Town staff have worked tirelessly over the last two years to appeal this decision – however, we have now exhausted all legal avenues. I trust the work we have done will motivate the new term of Council to ensure affected residents continue to be supported as they grapple with this change.”
The OLT’s approval was made on an interim basis subject to the completion of:
- an Environmental Compliance Approval being issued by the Ministry of the Environment, Conservation and Parks concerning noise and air emissions for the Plant;
- final planning instruments submitted to the Tribunal; and
- a Site Plan application being submitted and found to be satisfactory.
“I share in this disappointment and seek consolation in knowing we have explored every legal avenue available to appeal the OLT’s decision,” said Chief Administrative Officer, Carey Herd. “Council and Town staff remain committed to ensuring the proposal meets all legal standards and will regulate the construction and operation of the asphalt plant as appropriate.”
The Town has not received additional material for the Site Plan from the applicant and the timing of opening and operation of the plant is currently unknown.
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