Five parties, including a developer, landowner, and contractor, are facing charges in Burlington, Ontario, for cutting down 425 trees on a privately-owned golf course in violation of city bylaws. The City of Burlington announced the charges under its private tree bylaw, alleging that the parties caused tree injury or destruction without the necessary permits between April and June. Additionally, the contractor is facing charges under the public tree bylaw. The matter is now before the courts, with a court appearance scheduled for November 5.
Among the charged parties are Argo Development Corporation, Argo (Millcroft) Limited, Millcroft Greens Corporation, Timbertek Inc., and 2079610 Ontario Ltd. When contacted for a response, a spokesperson for developer Millcroft Greens denied the charges and expressed readiness to address the issue in court. However, there was no response from Argo and Timbertek at the time of publication.
The development in question involves transforming parts of a private golf course into residential homes on four sections of land within the course, along with the construction of an adjacent apartment. This redevelopment has been opposed by a local group called Millcroft Against Bad Development (MAD), which strongly opposes the project due to the loss of green space and community impact. MAD members expressed satisfaction with the charges brought against the parties involved, emphasizing the emotional impact of losing the trees.
The developer, Millcroft Greens, stated that all work was conducted with the necessary approvals and highlighted the preservation of 425 trees on the site, with plans to plant over 2,600 new trees in the developed area. Environment and Climate Change Canada investigated the tree removal for compliance with the Migratory Birds Convention Act Ontario but did not find any non-compliance issues related to bird protection laws.
MAD members reported increased noise levels and decreased enjoyment of their properties since the tree removal. They argue that the development, which includes 90 homes, will not significantly improve affordable housing in the city. The City of Burlington aims to address housing needs by constructing 2,724 housing units by 2026, including 228 affordable units. Despite opposition, work on the development site continues as per the approved plans by the Ontario Land Tribunal in 2024. The city emphasized the importance of preserving green spaces and maintaining neighborhood character in its decision.
