The purpose of the greenbelt…

The purpose of the greenbelt is to preserve and improve the ecology of which our cities are a part, around which we live. It is essential, and unreplaceable once developed into roads and rails, residential or industrial or commercial real estate. To re-zone this wise allocation of greenbelt and green spaces for short term gain in housing or tax base is unnecessary, cannot be undone, and will leave a legacy of short-sighted, unimaginative planning. I have heard "We have lots of wasted land..." - it is not.

Unfortunately, even within the city, we make expedient choices that sacrifice residual urban green spaces for building and transit - because it is cheaper, or perceived as convenient - this is then rationalized with passionate arguments, and the green space is gone forever. I have heard "We have lots of trees and grass..." - we do not.

Think ahead, think ecologically, not just in numbers. How many cities say "We want want fewer trees, fields, parks, paths and forests?" Think further ahead than more roads and another suburban development. The greenbelt was set aside for a reason. That reason has not changed. Work with it.