Developers challenge OMB

London Free Prress

Fri, August 15, 2008

They don't like a decision that's aimed at protecting the city's remaining woodlands

By KRISTA SEGGEWISS

A who's who of London's biggest developers is challenging an Ontario Municipal Board decision that protects the city's woodlands. The London Development Institute -- along with Fahri Holdings, Sifton Properties and Z Group and others -- has filed a leave to appeal, requesting the recent decision be reviewed by a court. The city plans to defend its position in court. "The OMB made it very clear what we put forward as policy upholds guidelines that are sound scientifically," said Mayor Anne Marie DeCicco-Best. Activist and former councillor Sandy Levin called the move by the developers "one more instance where it has been a constant struggle to protect the remaining woodlands in the city of London." At issue is a policy adopted by council in 2006 protecting 96 per cent of woodlands that are at least four hectares. The OMB heard arguments in January and dismissed the developers' appeal at the end of July. Levin sunk $33,000 into the process by hiring a lawyer and a planner to help the city's case. "It's disappointing that the (London Development Institute) and other landowners would continue to dispute a near unanimous decision of municipal council," Levin said. Attempts to reach the London Development Institute failed yesterday. The developers take exception to how woodlands are judged to be significant. Despite the Forest City moniker, London trails other municipalities in forest cover. According to the nonprofit ReForest London, the city has about 10 per cent natural forest cover, compared with Toronto's 20 per cent and Ottawa's 30 per cent. "It's been shown to be a very important issue to Londoners," Levin said. "It's important to citizens and landowners to live adjacent to woodlands." --- THE DEVELOPERS Developers who have filed a leave to appeal: London Development Institute; T.W. Johnstone and Mollyanne Johnstone; Corlon Properties Inc.; Norquay Developments Inc.; Johanne and Antonia Schalk; Liahn Farms; Sifton Properties Ltd.; Farhi Holdings and Corporation; Drewlo Holdings Inc.; Z Group Ltd.; Crich Holdings and Buildings Ltd.; Sunningdale Developments Inc.; Claybar Developments Inc.