Have the constituents of Hon. [Fort Langley-Aldergrove MLA] Rich Coleman heard of Riverview? Do they have any idea what is really there? Do they know what a loss this site would be to Coquitlam, B.C., Canada, and beyond?
This is not a bare piece of land, as Coleman would like to make it sound. This site is not simply green space, but an exceptional collection of mature trees that have been allowed to grow freely to their natural mature size and form, equivalent of a world-class arboretum.
On Friday, July 27, the Fort Langley-Aldergrove MLA's surprise announcement felt to us how Fort Langley residents might feel if our MLA planned a high-density development in Derby Reach Regional Park.
Coquitlam council and the community have been part of the Riverview Task Force to create a plan for the site since 2003. Coleman's announcement is in total conflict with everything in the "For the Future of Riverview" report.
Cabinet minister Coleman has in one statement attempted to destroy 15 years of volunteer efforts to protect the site. The trees will not survive the type of development suggested. The density alone will destroy what makes those trees unique.
The unique potential of the site would be lost if market housing were developed. It would be like building high rises in the middle of Stanley Park before people knew what was there. It may be smaller, but it is no less valuable.
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