As a resident on a nearby…

As a resident on a nearby lake, I am firmly against the proposed Freymond Quarry for several reasons.

First, I believe that noise from the Quarry's operations (e.g. grinding, blasting, drilling, loading, dump-trucks) will greatly impact the quality of life at my local cottage property. The peaceful environment is why I chose to own property in Bancroft in the first place. 

Second, I believe the Quarry's dump-trucks will further congest traffic routes throughout the Bancroft area. Bancroft already has significant traffic issues on weekends, especially Summer long weekends.  Hwy 62 at Hwy 28/Bridge St. is already very jammed on long weekends - this is the only route for locals, cottagers and tourists to enter (and pass through) Bancroft from Hwy 62. I currently buy all my goods/groceries from Bancroft retailers; but if traffic worsens I will likely purchase everything at home before driving up to Bancroft. I would simply avoid driving into town, even if I need to buy something.

Third, I am not convinced Freymond and Fowler will be the only companies involved with the proposed Quarry. If the Quarry proceeds, do we know exactly who would be operating the Quarry, and who would be granted power to make future decisions? Is there a guarantee that applications for expanded operations could not be submitted once the Quarry is operational?   

Fourth, despite Freymond Lumber having commissioned a groundwater study, I am very concerned there is significant risk of irreversible damage to the aquifer and water levels of several surrounding lakes.  

Finally, I am concerned about any point(s) above lowering the value of my property. In my opinion, this proposed Quarry would reward a very select few people, while laying a lot of risk on MANY local landowners, and the local environment.  

I am firmly opposed to this Quarry. I believe it's bad for me, and bad for the town of Bancroft.