Developer draws fire for cutting down 100-year-old trees

Thursday, July 28, 2016, 8:00 PM - A Toronto developer is under investigation after 30 trees, many of them over 100 years old, were cut down on both sides of Bayview Ridge at Bayview Avenue, the CBC reports.

The news agency reports resident Heather Cassels saw the trees being cut down and asked the site manager if he had a permit and was told that he did.

Cassels then contacted Coun. Jay Robinson, who oversees her ward. It was then discovered a permit had not been issued to Format Group, the company responsible for felling the trees.

According to its website, Format Group is developing an "upscale community comprising of two blocks of exquisitely-appointed homes ... tucked into an established community with quiet streets, mature trees and beautiful, high-end homes."

Concept art featuring the under-construction community. Courtesy: Bayviewridgegate.com.

Sina Saedin of Format Group told the CBC the company needed to clear the land to make room for new townhouse development and the necessary permits were acquired.

The city is now investigating. If it's proven a permit was not issued, the company could be fined $100,000 per tree.

Urban trees are important

Studies show there are numerous benefits to urban forests. In addition to reducing stress and beautifying communities, trees improve air quality by generating oxygen and removing carbon dioxide. According to the City of Kelowna's website, the average urban tree in Canada removes about 200 kg of carbon over an 80 year period.

Photo courtesy: Monique Wiendels

Other benefits

• According to the USDA Forestry Service, trees strategically placed around buildings can reduce air conditioning needs by 30 per cent and can save as much as  50 per cent of the energy required for heating.
• Trees can prevent erosion and storm runoff while reducing the risk of flooding.
• Trees serve as a habitat and food resource for urban wildlife.
• Statistics show well-landscaped homes in areas with mature trees can see property values increase by as much as 20 per cent.

Sources: CBC | Format Group

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