Nelson Quarry Plans to Expand Operations

Nelson Quarry in Burlington has announced proposed plans to expand their operations to adjacent properties they own. On a new website, Nelson briefly mentions their plans, and talks about their desire to turn the quarry over to the public once quarrying operations cease.“Over the next 25 years, we intend to expand the quarry operations into adjacent properties that we already own. During that same time, we propose to donate the land we are no longer using to the public. “Their newly launched website can be found here: www.mtnemoquarrypark.comThe quarry is required to alert nearby neighbours of the plans, as they are conducting water testing beginning this week.Expansion would require city approval. The first step is a preconsultation, and the city requires a public meeting as part of that process. Next, the quarry would need to submit applications, which are expected later this year.We will share more details as they become available.MY TAKE:The city and residents have fought long and hard to limit the negative impact of a quarry expansion on our rural community. We will not enter any discussions on an “after-use” concept for the quarry until after it is decommissioned. We will certainly not compromise good planning for the promise of a park. Quarries are typically gifted to a public agency after use as there would be ongoing costs to the owner without revenue coming in.