I'm writing in regards to…

I'm writing in regards to the proposed Waste Processing and Disposal Plant at 633 Coronation Drive.

As a resident of the West Rouge Neighbourhood, I am in strong opposition to the building of this plant in our community. The size, scope, and nature of this Plant are completely unsuitable for a residential area, particularly one with sensitive natural areas right next door (Highland Creek, East Point Park, among others), a popular waterfront trail, and an increasingly dense and robust residential neighbourhood. Proposals that involved far less infrastructure, local truck transportation, etc. have already been turned down through Environmental Assessment.

The trucks involved in bringing biosolid and organic heavy waste to the treatment plant alone are appalling. There's a primary school almost directly across Bennett Road, for starts, and the increased noise and traffic would be a major safety issue as well as a noise, pollution, smell, and general traffic problem. We already have enough traffic problems in this area thanks to our proximity to a GO station and access to the Highway.

It's well known that West Rouge has been touted as one of the most desirable areas to buy a home in Toronto - again, thanks to the waterfront, the wonderful community, excellent schools, etc. A major Waste Treatment Plant built right in one of the most beautiful waterfront zones, one of the major attractions and most-loved features of our community, would be undercutting the property values, the livability, and the enjoyability of our area. Access to parks and natural areas, such as Highland Creek, East Point Park, and Janellan Ravine Park - all of which are located right on the doorstep of the proposed plant location - are why my family enjoy living in, working in, and supporting the West Rouge neighbourhood.

I take my two children, ages 3 and 5, to East Point Park regularly to appreciate the amazing wetland areas and nature trails. To get there, we already pass through a misplaced industrial area. It's difficult to explain to my kids why there are plumes of steam and giant storage areas in the middle of what should be parkland and conservation areas. It's disappointing as it is that we have as much industrial business in that part of the neighbourhood as we do. That zoning may have been more appropriate when the GTA was smaller, but as the city has spread, the industrial area located there is no longer appropriate in any sense. I would much more support the removal of those businesses, not building more. I can't imagine how it would be to take my kids hiking there with a biosolids waste treatment plant and giant trucks rumbling in 24/7. The smell, the noise, and the general pollution and degradation of the area would ruin it.

We love our neighbourhood, our community, and our natural areas in West Rouge. I strongly oppose the building of the proposed Waste Processing and Disposal Plant at 633 Coronation Drive and I hope you will do everything in your power to prevent it. I will continue to advocate accordingly and stand with the united front of our local Community Associations.