Garbage dump once occupied quarry greenspace acquired by Halton Hills

Land acquired by Halton Hills for future public enjoyment once was used for landfill.

The greenspace, a 35.30 hectares (87 acres) parcel of land that was formerly owned by Acton Quarry, will now go through an environmental review and public consultation process to determine future recreational opportunities.

As part of an agreement with the Town, CRH Canada, owners of the quarry have turned over the property located south of Glen Lawson Rd. west of Fourth Line and north of the railroad tracks It includes lands along Black Creek.

The land acquisition fulfills part of the agreements the Town has with CRH Canada which sees the municipality secure ownership of properties once quarry activities are completed. Known as the Glen Lawson Lands, the recent transfer is the first parcel to be transferred to the Town. This piece of land was never used for mining purposes.

“We’re very pleased to have acquired these significant lands alongside a waterway,” said Mayor Ann Lawlor. “Ownership of these lands ensures that the Town can continue to protect important natural areas and provide recreation opportunities for current and future residents of the Town.”

Until the land is evaluated, the Town will manage it as a natural area and will not be immediately open to the public.

Plans include environmental reviews and measures to address the portion of the property previously used as a dump.

Eventually the Town intends to initiate a full public consultation process to get input on potential recreational opportunities. The process is intended to begin next year.