As concerned residents of Old Norwood Road in Havelock, Ontario, we come together to voice our opposition to the proposed application for a Zoning By-law Amendment  and the construction and development of a sports complex that includes two baseball diamonds, two tennis courts, four pickleball courts, a dog park, two washroom pavilions, and a parking lot.

Many of us chose this area specifically for its peaceful environment and proximity to Havelock’s core, while still being removed from the relentless pace of Highway 7. We appreciate the gentle sounds of nature, from croaking frogs to the frequent sightings of deer. These elements contribute to the unique serenity that exists within our neighbourhood, and the thought of an active sports complex disrupting this harmony is unsettling. 

We worry about the chaos and disruption that would accompany a development like the proposed—noise from crowds and spectators, the relentless clamour of sports games, and the bright lights that would invade our evenings. The potential for disruptive construction activities further complicates our concerns, as we fear our peaceful morning routines will be overtaken by machinery and commotion. Overflow parking from visitors and spectators could clutter our streets, making them less safe and less accessible for our families and pets. The presence of a public complex raises troubling questions about litter, excessive noise, and, unfortunately, the prospect of attracting unruly behaviour, which could compromise the safety and charm of our street.

Our neighbourhood, which we love for its tranquility and natural beauty, deserves to be preserved. We implore decision-makers to consider the profound impact this complex would have on our way of life, and we stand united in our desire to protect the serenity we hold dear.

 

CONCERNS IN DETAIL:

Increased Noise Pollution: The lively atmosphere of sports events brings with it loud cheering, announcements, and music, which would disrupt the peaceful sounds of nature that we appreciate. Furthermore, those who work shift work and require sleep at varying times throughout the day (and week) will be heavily impacted by constant ambient noise from increased traffic, sports, and animals at the dog park.

Construction Disturbances: The heavy machinery and construction noise will disturb our daily lives for potentially years, shattering the tranquility we find in our homes and impacting the connection our neighbourhood has with its wildlife permanently.

Overflow Parking Issues: While a parking lot is proposed for the complex, it’s realistic to believe that, with sporting events taking place, our street will see a significant increase in traffic and overflow parking, creating safety hazards for residents and children and making it difficult for us to access our own homes.

Litter and Garbage Accumulation: With increased foot traffic, we are concerned about the inevitable litter that will be left behind on our street, detracting from the natural beauty and cleanliness of our neighbourhood. Additionally, an outdoor complex of this size also raises concerns for garbage from smoking, drugs, and alcohol.

Excessive Bright Lights: Floodlights for baseball diamonds, tennis courts, and pickleball courts shining into our homes during nighttime events will disrupt the darkness we enjoy, affecting our sleep and evening relaxation. Nights enjoying the stars and peaceful campfires will no longer exist.

Increased Foot Traffic: The influx of daily and nightly visitors will intrude on our privacy, making our neighbourhood feel less secure. Additionally, many residents have pets which happily roam free within our respective properties. Increased foot traffic and vehicle traffic poses concerns for the safety, wellbeing, and comfort levels of our pets. More activity at our roadsides will cause unnecessary excitement, interest, or anxiety for our pets.

Potential for Unruly Behaviour: Increased activity may attract undesirable behaviours, such as loitering and drug use, threatening the safety of our residents.

Detrimental Impact on Local Wildlife: The construction and ongoing operation of a sports complex could displace local wildlife, disrupting the delicate ecosystems that currently thrive here.

Loss of Green Space: This would mean a significant reduction in our natural landscape—a loss that cannot be replaced and that diminishes the community’s character.

Shift in Community Dynamics: Our quiet, nature-focused street would transform into a bustling area, altering the very essence of why we chose to live in this area.