Parts of Barker’s Bush trail access closed during Nith Peninsula residential construction

MEDIA RELEASE, COUNTY OF BRANT

- With construction continuing at the Nith Peninsula Residential Subdivision, we would like to notify residents that signage will be posted to help trail users safely access the trails around Barker’s Bush in Paris during required tree removals and servicing installation

Physical barriers and signage will be erected and maintained throughout the duration of construction.

There is no through access between the East and West sides of Barker’s Bush. The Barker’s Bush trail loop will remain open and available for use on the East portion of the park and a dead-end linear trail can still be used. Trail users are asked to please avoid any construction areas and navigate the trail with caution.

We apologize for the inconvenience during this time and thank you for your cooperation

Plans to develop Barker’s Bush started in 2016 when Losani applied to build residential subdivision on this tract of land. Plans were strongly opposed by residents who were concerned with preserving the natural habitat in Barker’s Bush. Losani was required to complete a number of studies before their application could proceed. In 2017, working through the Local Planning Appeal Tribunal process, the County of Brant was able to make a deal with Losani that would respect the environment and address concerns put forward by the community. These accomplishments included and exchange of lands between the county and Losani which allowed the county to gain ownership of over 100 acres of Barker’s Bush to be environmentally protected, in exchange for 40 acres of the former Gurney Sand and Gravel Pit lands.

The County has hired WPS Canada Inc to help create the Barker’s Bush Master Plan. They held public consultations and conducted studies on how to offer new trails and connections to existing trails in Barker’s Bush and how to enhance and maintain what’s already there. The well loved walking, hiking and cycling destination is utilized by area residents, cycling clubs and running groups. The land is predominantly accessed through Lion’s Park and Penman’s Pass. In fact, during peak season, Penman’s Pass registers 15,000 passes in a month. Losani will develop the remaining 98 acres of existing farmland into a 564-unit residential subdivision on the Nith Peninsula In accordance to the tribunal agreement, Losani must install a stormwater management pond as a buffer to Barker’s Bush, which will be a naturalized area on the north end of the development. If you have any questions or concerns with the work that is underway, you can contact Losani Homes at 905-643-2491 or Network Sewer and Watermains at 519-223-2270.