February 28, 2005
Infrastructure in the Greenbelt
Towns, villages and hamlets have always existed in the greenbelt area. In order to support these vibrant rural communities, as well as communities that surround the greenbelt, new infrastructure and natural resource extraction may be permitted in the greenbelt area.
Infrastructure development is a vital component to fostering vibrant rural communities in the Golden Horseshoe. Infrastructure – such as roads and utility corridors – is fundamental to the economic well-being and quality of life in southern Ontario. An extensive infrastructure network currently exists within the greenbelt to service settlements, agricultural and resource sectors, and local economies.
New Projects and Additions
The plan permits new projects and additions to infrastructure, provided they:
- Serve Greenbelt objectives
- Accommodate expected growth and economic development, as identified in the Growth Plan
- Undergo an environmental assessment to meet important criteria, such as:
-avoiding natural features where possible
- respecting the connectivity of the natural system
- maximizing existing infrastructure capacity and services.
Infrastructure in Sensitive Areas
The greenbelt plan permits infrastructure to cross natural heritage features and hydrologically sensitive areas, if no practical alternative exists. Additional requirements ensure planning, design and construction practices minimize any adverse impacts on these areas. Major infrastructure facilities – such as highway interchanges or transit stations – should be located in areas that respect the vision and goals of the greenbelt.
Natural Resources in the Greenbelt
Natural Resources play an important role in community economic development and the regional economy. Aggregates are key building blocks for the housing and infrastructure that will be needed to support growth and development in the future. In addition, aggregate resources that are available close-to-market minimize transport-related damage to roads and pollution from vehicle emissions.
The greenbelt plan allows for limited aggregate extraction, provided new operations avoid certain features. Stronger protections are assigned to provincially significant wetlands and woodlands, and the habitats of endangered or threatened species, where extraction is limited. In addition, extraction sites, once depleted, must be rehabilitated to a state of equal or greater ecological value as soon as possible.
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Contacts:
Patti Munce
Minister’s Office
416-585-6333
Victor Doyle
Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing
416-585-6014
www.greenbelt.ontario.ca