Stop the Batch Plant in Cochrane
1. It’s About Cochrane’s Identity — Not Just a Batch Plant, this isn’t just about one industrial site. It’s about whether Cochrane remains a livable, family-friendly town — or an industrial corridor. Residents are raising concerns because the Town isn’t listening.
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❌ 1. No to the Batch Plant
· Cochrane is Alberta’s fastest-growing town — and 11th fastest in Canada.
· This site was never meant to be industrial — it’s now surrounded by homes.
· The gravel pit expansion began after Heidelberg signed a lease — now they want a batch plant too.
· Town says it’s either “gravel for 25 years” or “gravel and concrete.” Why not explore better options like Walker’s Reach?
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📅 2. No Guaranteed End Date
· They say 2036 — but it depends on “market conditions.” That’s no commitment.
· They’ve secured water rights until 2046 — how likely are they to walk away?
· In Calgary’s Ramsay, Heidelberg trucked in gravel to keep going. Will that happen here?
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🌫️ 3. Pollution, Noise, Safety
· Dust studies ignore real-world local conditions.
· We’ve captured dust storms crossing the Bow River — and decibel levels already above legal limits.
· Water from settling ponds has spilled into the Bow.
· Light pollution is already bad — a 24/7 plant will make it worse.
· Trucks now travel near homes and school bus routes. Traffic will get worse.
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💧 4. Unsustainable Water Use
· Concrete is water-intensive — over 30 million liters annually.
· Cochrane and the Bow River are already under pressure.
· When river levels drop, who will sell water to Heidelberg?
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🏠 5. Quality of Life Will Decline
· 12-months-a-year, 7-days-a-week operation — with requests for extended hours.
· Residents may no longer enjoy their backyards or open windows.
· Home values will drop.
· Infrastructure damage from truck traffic could lead to higher taxes.
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🙉 6. Engagement Has Been Inadequate
· Heidelberg’s “engagement” is mostly sponsorships.
· Their March open house was poorly advertised and lacked substance.
· No formal follow-up — despite collecting residents’ emails.
· The Town has refused to host a public meeting to date. That’s not consultation.
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💵 7. Economic Benefit Doesn’t Justify the Cost
· 5–7 jobs. $3,000 in tax revenue.
· That’s the trade-off? For what residents will lose — it’s not worth it!
Help us Fight!
Email us at stopcochraneconcreteplant@gmail.com to join the fight!