Episode 46: the Reformatory Lands

Have you ever wondered why there is so much activity - cars, bikes, pedestrians - on the south side of York Road near Elizabeth Street?  Guelph's Ontario Reformatory Lands is one of the most picturesque places to take a walk, hike, meditate, and soak up nature's beauty.  Along the way, you'll pass by Heritage trees, fieldstone walls, ponds, and the old reformatory buildings.

These lands are owned by the provincial government, and Guelph's own Yorklands Green Hub wanted to purchase a 70 acre parcel of this land.  Alas, this is no longer possible, as the provincial government has decided to sell the entire property in a one shot deal.  For this week's breakfast, recorded on May 27, 2021, our guests from the YGH focused on the Natural and Cultural Heritage designation of these lands.  In short, a higher designation will provide the OR lands with better protection:  some of the lands might even remain in the public realm.

Norah Chaloner will kick things off with some introductory remarks.  Susan Ratcliffe will describe the Cultural Heritage value of the OR lands and will give an introduction to the Natural and Cultural Heritage designation process.  David Alton will discuss the benefits of a Part V designation and how it fits with the Guelph Innovation District Secondary Plan.  Alex Smith will bring it all back home by investigating City Staff's recommendation of a Part IV designation, rather than the stronger Part V designation.

The OR designation decision will be made at the June 14th council meeting.  This lively presentation will inspire you to make a delegation!

 

This breakfast was co-moderated by Tanya Gevaert and James Gordon.

 

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