We the undersigned residents of the United Counties of Leeds and Grenville, petition the Merrickville- Wolford Council and the United Counties of Leeds and Grenville Council and Planning Advisory Committee in strong opposition to the Proposed Plan of Subdivision (File No. 07-T-20252 (MW)) named ‘Orchards of River Bend’ located at 819 County Road 23, Merrickville-Wolford.

The Proposed Plan of Subdivision, for up to 58 units on 29 lots, is on land directly along the banks of the Rideau Canal waterways, a UNESCO world heritage site, which is the habitat of several threatened and endangered animal and plant species, and that is also subject to damaging and dangerous erosion. The subject land has both cultural and environmental significance, with established turtle nesting grounds, apple orchards and protected butternut trees. Further, the proposal for such an intensive subdivision is out of keeping with the character of our rural community, and will bring with it drastic changes to our safety along a quiet country road that is the route used by bicyclists, horseback riders, trekkers and Sunday drivers enjoying the slow and beautifully pastoral route into the Village of Merrickville.

We respectfully ask that the Councils and Planning Advisory Committees involved in considering such a development know that the undersigned strongly oppose this intensive development which, in addition to the above, is not aligned with attributes of our rural community. We are deeply concerned with the dangers of such a plan and respectfully request that it be denied approval.

📬 Important: If you are a local resident, please complete this short form after signing so we can include your name and address when we present this to council:

👉https://forms.gle/CaeEowAeqk1MZw8E8

*Be advised we do not accept/need donations. This petition is only to show your support.