At the eastern fringe of Toronto, 37 square kilometres of diverse landscapes have remained untouched for half a century, frozen in time by the federal government’s plans for an airport that never materialised. As the decision regarding the fate of this land approaches in spring 2024, the community and conservationists are advocating for a vision that prioritises sustainable agriculture and public access, rather than the sprawl of urban development.
A Land Set Aside for a Dream That Never Was
Originally acquired in the 1970s, this stretch of land in Pickering was intended for a new airport, a project deemed unnecessary as the existing Pearson Airport can adequately meet the region’s air travel demands. With officials announcing that the airport will not be built, the focus now shifts to what should become of the land. The federal government is expected to incorporate part of this area into Rouge National Urban Park, but the remainder’s fate hangs in the balance.
Transport Canada is currently finalising consultations, which conclude on April 17, 2024. The City of Pickering is also preparing recommendations for land use and economic development, with a public meeting scheduled for April 22. The prevailing vision among local NGOs, spearheaded by the Waterfront Regeneration Trust, promotes a transformative approach that integrates agriculture with community access.
Envisioning a Sustainable Future
The proposed plan, crafted in collaboration with esteemed Danish landscape architects SLA, seeks to create an agricultural landscape that is both productive and accessible. This vision encompasses working farmland, with villages for those who cultivate the land and a network of trails that would invite locals and tourists alike to explore the natural beauty of the area.
“By protecting prime farmland in optimal locations and prioritising biodiversity, we can create a sustainable buffer between agriculture and development,” noted Rasmus Astrup, design principal at SLA. This holistic approach aims to preserve the region’s rich soil and vital water systems while enhancing the connection between urban dwellers and nature.
Architect Ken Greenberg, part of the advocacy coalition, emphasises that this initiative is not merely about land use but about redefining urban-rural relationships. “It’s about a completely different way of thinking,” he explained, advocating for a model where urban sprawl is contained and agricultural land thrives on the outskirts, thus fostering a greater connection to the environment.
A Critical Crossroads
As discussions progress, concerns grow that the City of Pickering’s land use review may lean towards conventional development—housing and industrial spaces—rather than embracing the sustainable vision. Alexis Whalen, chair of Land Over Landings, strongly opposes the notion of paving over prime agricultural land, especially in light of the current geopolitical climate, food security challenges, and the pressing need for fresh produce.
“Why would we even consider development on Class One soil at a time like this?” she questioned, highlighting the land’s potential to sustain the surrounding urban population with locally grown food.
The Case Against Sprawl
The Toronto region is characterised by underutilised land that could support industrial growth and housing, without the necessity of sacrificing fertile farmland. Many neighbourhoods are experiencing declining populations, which raises the question of whether more urbanisation is truly needed. Advocates argue that the future should not be about expanding the footprint of the city but rather about nurturing the land that feeds its residents.
Why it Matters
The outcome of this decision could set a precedent for how urban areas engage with their surrounding landscapes. Should the federal government opt for sustainable agricultural development, it would not only preserve vital ecosystems but also foster a deeper connection between urban dwellers and the land. This could serve as a model for other cities grappling with similar issues of land use and environmental sustainability, emphasising that our approach to planning can significantly impact food security and community well-being in years to come.
