The Ontario government is safeguarding southern Ontario’s green spaces by making the area’s most memorable metropolitan commonplace park in the Municipality of Uxbridge. In addition to strengthening the long-term protection and health of the local wildlife, this proposed park in the Oak Ridges Moraine would provide opportunities for individuals and families to enjoy the natural beauty of the area, such as hiking and birdwatching. Provincially protected areas can also aid in environmental monitoring and scientific research.
Minister of the Environment, Conservation, and Parks David Piccini stated, “I’m thrilled to be making today’s announcement on Earth Day.” Ontario’s conservation and biodiversity protection would benefit greatly from the establishment of the first urban provincial park in Uxbridge. We anticipate working with people in general and neighborhood partners to make this vision a reality for occupants and guests to get out and appreciate nature close to this quickly developing district.”
Peter Bethlenfalvy, Minister of Finance and Member of Provincial Parliament for Pickering—Uxbridge, stated, “Opening a new provincial park in Uxbridge would give families and people in the community new ways to enjoy the great outdoors all year long.” Ontario’s strong provincial park system includes the province’s most scenic and beautiful areas, which will be enjoyed by many generations to come.
The proposed urban park, which was first announced in the budget for 2023, could include up to 1,315 acres (530 hectares) of provincially owned land. That is 50% larger than Central Park in New York City. The territory is likewise working with the Municipality of Uxbridge, Toronto and Locale Preservation Authority, Nature Conservancy of Canada, Lake Simcoe District Protection Authority, The Schad Establishment, the Territorial Region of Durham and Green Durham Relationship, to distinguish the full sporting and assurance capability of a metropolitan commonplace park around here. The review region might incorporate the Durham Provincial Backwoods, a 598 hectare (1,477 sections of land) blended wood and conifer timberland region, possessed by the Locale of Durham, and a potential 120 hectares (300 sections of land) from the Municipality of Uxbridge.
In order to determine whether or not creating an urban provincial park in Uxbridge is a viable option, the government will carry out site assessments and evaluations in the coming months. In order to assist the government in making its final decision, these assessments will include discussions with Indigenous communities, the general public, local stakeholders, partners, and environmental organizations.
The government is moving forward with its promises to ensure that families have access to recreational opportunities, boost local tourism, and improve the health and protection of local wildlife and the environment by looking into the establishment of Ontario’s first urban provincial park.
The Ontario government’s 2023 spending plan: Building a Strong Ontario is contributing to the acceleration of key infrastructure projects, attracting investments and jobs, and driving economic growth. In addition, the plan proposed by the government aims to improve services for Ontario residents, reduce costs for those most in need, and train skilled workers to fill in-demand positions.
