We, the undersigned, declare our opposition to the proposed development in Arnprior, ON of the property east of Gillies Grove Nature Reserve that runs from the end of Harrington Street north to the Ottawa River and east to John Street.

Reasons for opposing this development:

1. The Gillies Grove Nature Reserve, as an exceptionally rare old-growth forest will be damaged by this development. The loss of buffer trees and promotion of wind tunnel damage, the impacts on water/drainage systems, the loss of wildlife movement corridors, and increased light and noise pollution are among the negative environmental impacts. As the last remaining undeveloped land adjacent to the Grove, it is crucial that it remains intact for the preservation of this irreplaceable ecosystem.
2. The increased traffic, noise and human activity in this area will not be without undue strain on those living, working, being educated or served at the hospital in the area. This already congested area simply can not sustain the demands of a new development.
3. This land is the location of the first building erected in Arnprior, Kinnell Lodge, as well as the original Mclachlin Family farm and, as such, is a historical site of great import. 
4. The loss of the recreational value of these lands is too great for our community. With development, not only would the public no longer be able to access this space for the myriad of activities that they have enjoyed for over 100 years, but they could no longer use the area to access the Grove, the beach or Robert Simpson Park, isolating each from one another. Additionally, by losing this recreational asset, all activities would have to be serviced at adjacent parks which would not have the ability to sustain this for the current nor new residents of the area. 
5. As this parcel of land is situated on the traditional, unceded territory of the Algonquin Anishinaabe Nation, it is important genuine consultation with local Algonquin communities occurs.

We are committed to finding a better option. We support the property being sold instead to the Nature Conservancy of Canada who have shown excellent stewardship with the Gillies Grove Nature Reserve and will likewise continue this legacy with the adjacent land. If more funds are needed than the NCC can allocate, we the people of Arnprior and beyond will raise those funds to allow the sale to be finalized without any deficiencies.

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