The proposed location of the extraction pit
McDonalds Corners residents are concerned about the intended plans of a well-known construction company.
Judy Hitchcock lives near Barbers Lake, where Cavanagh Construction is hoping to establish a sand extraction operation, with a pit below the water table on a 125 acre plot of land in between the lake and a popular sugar camp.
She says they’re worried about the possible environmental impact it may have.
The company’s submitted a rezoning application to Lanark Highlands and stated their intentions to extract up to 1 million tonnes annually.
Hitchcock says if approved, this could impact the whole area.
An online petition ‘Save Barbers Lake’ has grossed over 3,100 signatures.
As part of their application, Cavanagh submitted sound, traffic, water and environmental reports surrounding the possible pit, in which they’ve stated their intention of running 24 hours a day, according to a report from Lanark Highlands.
Presently there are nine ongoing aggregate pit licenses within seven kilometers of this proposed site, combining for a total annual extraction amount of 900,000 tonnes. Hitchcock said she’s noticed minimal impact with those in operation.
A public meeting is set for Tuesday night at Lanark Highlands council.
Story by Grant Deme
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