NLIS 5
December 17, 2002
(Tourism, Culture and Recreation)
 

Minister announces that Windmill Bight park area will not be reduced

Julie Bettney, Minister of Tourism, Culture and Recreation, today announced land from the Windmill Bight park area will not be de-commissioned to accommodate the development of a proposed golf course. Under the Provincial Parks Act, the course is not permitted since it exceeds the five-hectare limit for commercial development. In order for the proposed Windmill Bight golf course to proceed, the section of land would have to be removed from the park.

"I have closely reviewed all aspects of this proposal in preparation for an upcoming court case on the matter," said Minister Bettney. "Government has received some very good submissions supporting the proposal, but nonetheless strong arguments against the proposal continue. After weighing all of the information and consulting with my colleagues, I feel the best course of action is to keep this land protected within the park."

Windmill Bight is an ecologically significant area. It is one of several areas of dunes located along the northeast coast extending from Musgrave Harbour to Cape Freels. It is a part of the eastern hypo-oceanic barrens eco-region which is a rarity in the northeastern island portion of the province. The park�s lagoon is a feeding area for migratory seabirds and the sandy coastline was once a nesting area for the endangered piping plover.

"Extensive plans developed to offset any environmental impact to the area have not alleviated public concerns or those from various environmental groups," said Minister Bettney. "I have received significant representation on the matter. Given the unique natural features of the area, concerned citizens and advocacy groups continue to express their views on the issue on a very regular basis."

The decision not to de-commission the park land does not prevent the proponent from finding an alternate site for the proposed golf course. The funding allocated for the project by the Department of Municipal and Provincial Affairs is still available should the proponents find a suitable location.

"Windmill Bight has unique landscape features such as sandy beaches, rocky headlands, and Atlantic plateau bog, to name a few. Its near pristine nature distinguishes it from other similar sites which have received considerably more damage," said the minister. "Government will now need to work with the local community to preserve this precious piece of our natural heritage for generations to come."

Media contact: Melony O�Neill, Communications, (709) 729-0928.

2002 12 17                                        1:35 p.m.


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