Walker Aggregates wants quarry east of Thorold Townline Road, west of Beechwood Road
Plenty for the Niagara Region's Planning Committee to consider after hearing about 15 presentations over the proposed quarry by Walker Aggregates in Niagara Falls.
Planning Consultant Debra Walker, who's last name is coincidental, pointed out no one wants a quarry, but everyone needs its resources.
She stressed the company is focused on aggregate standards. "All planning decisions are to be consistent with the provincial policy statement, which does require that as much mineral aggregate resources, as it realistically possible, shall be made as close to markets as possible."
She added with the growth of Niagara in coming years, there's a demand for minerals, and the aggregate industry is heavily regulated in Ontario.
However, many spoke of health and environment concerns, and property devaluation.
Resident Aaron D'Eon, the only one to speak without notes, said they bought their nearby home 5-years ago for retirement, but the quarry will change that. "We've built a vacation rental on our property, in order to subsidize our income, to make this our dream come true. With the ambient noise coming from the quarry, we will lose that rental property."
Others spoke of the importance of zoning by-laws and what designation the land is under, and that Walker Aggregates has not established a need for more aggregate facilities.
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