Concerns Rise Over Perth’s Golf Course Housing Project

Like many communities in Ontario, Perth is trying to maintain its small-town feel while dealing with rapid growth. (Sam Konnert/CBC)

A new subdivision plan that would increase the population of an eastern Ontario town by over one-third by constructing hundreds of homes on one of Canada’s oldest golf courses isn’t sitting well with some locals.

The proposal from developer Caivan in Perth, Ont., includes 640 detached homes, 299 townhomes, 18 roads, a network of multi-use paths, three parks and stormwater ponds. It’s expected to accommodate between 2,300 and 2,500 residents.

“It’s a standing joke that the population sign on Highway 7 never changes from 6,000,” Mayor Judy Brown told a full town hall meeting earlier this month. “That’s about to change.”

The large scale of the proposed development and its location have drawn attention – and concern – from residents.

“I wouldn’t describe this as a good developer if this is what they’re suggesting for us,” resident Ramsey Hart stated at the meeting.

WATCH | A sample of resident opinions:

Perth residents split over building homes on golf course

Residents in Perth, Ont., share their thoughts on the debate surrounding a proposed subdivision that would expand the town by about a third but build over one of Canada’s oldest golf courses.

Facing Growth Challenges

Similar to many Ontario towns near larger cities, Perth – located around 85 kilometers southwest of downtown Ottawa – has had to navigate inevitable growth while wanting to keep its small-town character intact.

The town’s population was projected to grow by nearly 25 percent to around 8,100 people by 2038 based on a comprehensive review conducted in 2019.

“People are worried about losing some charm in our town,” Brown told CBC. “We don’t want it becoming just another clone.”

A key topic in the discussion is the future of the Perth Golf Course. Established back in 1890, it’s known as Canada’s oldest continuously operating course.

Perth Golf Course, which opened in 1890, features Canada’s oldest continuously operating links. (Sam Konnert/CBC)

Caivan has acquired the land and intends to cut down the course from eighteen holes to nine for the new community.

Neither Caivan nor Perth Golf Course provided comments for CBC regarding this story.

“We want it clear that we aim to keep operations for an eighteen-hole golf course through the end of the 2024 season,” stated a letter sent to members from the course.

“If financial or other issues cause operations at the golf course to cease, then those lands will be available for development.”

Access Issues Raised

A major concern voiced by residents revolves around access to this new community.

The land sits just west of downtown Perth and south of Highway 7, almost surrounded by the Tay River. Currently, there’s only one road leading into and out of the golf course which crosses over a narrow bridge at Peter Street.

Caivan is proposing building 940 homes on Perth Golf Course while reducing it from eighteen holes down to nine. (Caivan)

The developer plans to twin that bridge; however it would remain as the only access point into this new community. This comes despite findings from a study done in 2018 stating two separate bridges would be necessary for managing future growth in that area.

Certain residents worry that having just one entrance could create bottlenecks that might be inconvenient or even hazardous during emergencies.

“In my opinion, relying solely on current access is a critical mistake,” resident Jack Tannett remarked during town hall amid loud applause. “It could cost lives.”

Joanna Bowes, who serves as Perth’s director of development services agreed; she pointed out how having only one access point can pose serious problems during crises like recent tornadoes hitting nearby areas.

“If something happens here, people along with emergency services won’t be able get in or out,” Bowes said.

The developer wants to twin this bridge crossing over Tay River; under current plans it remains as sole access point into new community – seen as unwise by some residents. (Sam Konnert/CBC)

An engineering consultant hired by the municipality found even with twinning plans considered-having another route is still necessary:

“Any blockage either side leaves development without alternative entry,” noted their report.

‘Adjustments’ Needed

Beyond access concerns Bowes emphasized how there isn’t any long-term strategy including such developments within current plans.”
”The project doesn’t align with provincial policies,” she explained referencing Lanark County sustainability goals plus regulations laid out specifically for growing municipalities like hers.
”That doesn’t mean they can’t become compliant-we just need make adjustments first!”

Joanna Bowes oversees local response towards Caivan’s proposition drawing upon expert feedback previously obtained concerning matters affecting drainage , parking requirements , snow clearance & landscaping strategies too!P

This represents obligations held accountable regarding thorough analysis before forwarding recommendations. We must acknowledge public feedback throughout entire process regardless authenticity levels perceived !

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The council now faces tough choices balancing developers’ interests against constituents’ worries alongside input received via consultants!
Bowes mentioned still waiting essential documents needed from builders encompassing updated environmental impact assessment paperwork required prior proceeding further steps forward here >< } %

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