The Grey Highlands council has given the green light to a new campground development on the shores of Lake Eugenia, according to a Collingwood Today report. The approval came after a 4-3 vote in favor of rezoning a 39.1-hectare property for the construction of 10 cabins, a project named Gandhi Cabins.
Grey Highlands showcases a diverse array of green spaces, blending the natural beauty of the landscape with thoughtfully designed recreational areas. Whether you’re drawn to the adrenaline of sports like soccer, baseball, dragon boating, and skiing, or prefer the tranquility of hiking, nature walks, and canoeing along the serene Beaver River, this region has something to offer for every pace of life.
With 10 park areas, eight playgrounds, eight sports fields, extensive trails along the Beaver Valley Bruce Trail, and two swimming ponds, residents and visitors alike have ample opportunities for both active and passive recreation.
This choice came after a period of public discussion, which included a public meeting where locals expressed worries about potential noise, increased traffic, environmental effects on the lake, and an increase in boat traffic.
The Gandhi Cabins introduces a seasonal operation model, limiting their availability from March through December annually. This operational constraint ensures that the cabins blend harmoniously with the natural cycle of the area, minimizing their impact during the critical winter months.
In addition to infrastructural considerations, the project is contingent upon conducting a thorough environmental impact study, specifically focusing on the campground’s proximity to wetlands within a 120-meter radius.
The property, previously zoned for restricted agriculture, hazards, and wetland, will now see a portion of it rezoned to rural with specific exceptions for the cottage building envelopes. This move has sparked considerable discussion among council members.
According to the report, Mayor Paul McQueen, along with Deputy Mayor Dane Nielsen and Councilors Joel Loughead and Tom Allwood, voted in favor of the proposal.
Coun. Nadia Dubyk expressed additional worries in response to comments made by Grey County’s planning department, particularly regarding the sewage system’s ability to handle the anticipated flow from the cabins.
In the Grey Highlands, parks are equipped with picnic tables, playgrounds, and benches, set against the backdrop of scenery, making them perfect spots for family outings, and solo adventures.
