Image by: unsplash

The Ontario government, led by Premier Doug Ford, has announced its intention to explore the possibility of reinstating environmental protections on two properties in Ajax, Ontario, that were removed from the Greenbelt last year to make way for development. The properties, located at 765 and 775 Kingston Road East, had been listed for sale by the land's owner without prior disclosure to the government's facilitator during ongoing discussions. Premier Ford expressed concern that this behavior contradicted the government's efforts to make home ownership more accessible.

However, the landowner's representative countered that there was a misunderstanding, explaining that the international owner sought a development partner rather than an outright sale. The move to remove environmental protections from the Greenbelt had faced criticism and controversy, with allegations of developer influence on the decision. The recent resignation of the housing minister's chief of staff and the possibility of an RCMP investigation have added to the controversy.

Premier Ford stated that the government is considering options, including potentially returning these sites to the Greenbelt, and issued a warning to other property owners to meet government conditions or risk their land returning to the Greenbelt. Opposition parties criticized the government's actions, calling for the lands to be immediately returned to Greenbelt protection and demanding accountability for the decision.

Additionally, the properties in question have heritage status designated by the Town of Ajax, which may further complicate any development plans and require town approval for alterations to the heritage attributes of the property.

Read the full article on: CBC