Wetlands

UPDATE:  

A Provincial biologist made a site visit to Simms Creek in late November, and we await their report.  WestUrban's updated RAPR Assessment has not yet been included on the City's Development Services website. 

Wetlands not mapped in the RAPR Assessment (Riparian Areas Protection Regulation) submitted by WestUrban to the City and supporting WestUrban’s Minor Development Permit Application (MIP) have been documented and Save Simms Creek has shared this new information with the City.   

These wetlands fall within the guidelines for protection and environmental setbacks, based on the work of Michele Jones, Registered Professional Biologist and wetlands specialist, and our supporters, whose diligence is sincerely appreciated. We expect the original RAPR Assessment will be updated and adhere to all professional and provincial requirements prior to submission to the Province for review.

The City has provided WestUrban with direction to not proceed with clearing the lot until the Minor Development Permit Application is approved. 

We are pleased with the possible impact an updated RAPR may have on the scope of the proposed project and probable extended timeline, but caution it is a delay and not a victory for Simms Creek.
 

Please continue to write letters to City Hall as this remains the most effective method to have our voices heard.  It is important to ensure WestUrban, the City and the Province all fulfill their obligations of due diligence on this proposed project. You may wish to ask the City to:

• Ensure WestUrban and its Qualified Environmental Professional (QEP) resubmit an updated RAPR Assessment to the Province documenting all wetlands and surface water connected to Simms Creek, with revised Stream Protection and Enhancement Area (SPEA) setbacks as legally required.

• Delay any hearing or decision by Council regarding WestUrban’s request for a height variance until such time as an updated RAPR has been completed, reviewed and accepted by the Province, and reviewed and approved by the City.