Land surrounding the Bell Creek Wetlands should never be developed. It’s a vital part of the Bell Creek watershed and filters water flowing into the Bay of Quinte, helping to keep Belleville’s drinking water clean and safe. It also prevents flooding and nurtures a green space where community members can hike, run and connect with nature. 

As one of Belleville’s vital natural areas, the wetlands and the larger watershed are a biological hotspot—home to hundreds of plants and animals. We don’t need to destroy them to provide the sustainable housing Belleville needs! 

Yet, a current development application, the Hanley Park North subdivision, proposes to build just 30 metres from the wetlands boundary. If it goes ahead as planned, construction damage and ongoing polluted runoff would cause irreparable harm.

It’s up to Belleville City Council to ensure that new housing doesn’t come at the expense of the Bell Creek Wetlands. Urge your local councillors to oppose this development and support an existing proposal to purchase the land for conservation.  

Across Southern Ontario, wetlands are under threat. Over 72 per cent of the original wetlands are gone and the losses continue. We can’t afford to lose The Bell Creek Wetlands too.

Your letter will go to Mayor of Belleville, Neil Ellis and Belleville City Councillors, Lisa Anne Chatten, Barbara Enright-Miller, Sean Kelly, Kelly Henderson, Margaret Seu, Garnet Thompson, Kathryn Anne Brown, and Paul Carr.