The BWRA has been working to ensure that the interests of our neighbourhood are front and centre in the development of 100 Ranleigh Ave. Today we are pleased to say that with the great support of our City Councillor, Jaye Robinson, we have great news to report! Please read Councillor Robinson’s email below:

14 September 2016

Dear Friends and Neighbours,

I have some very exciting news to share! As you know, at the July meeting of City Council, I was successful in directing City Planning and the City Solicitor to attend the OMB to continue to fight the application for 100 Ranleigh in spite of a positive staff report.

Immediately following the meeting, I requested that city staff investigate the feasibility of acquiring the lands at 100 Ranleigh as a public space.

As neighbourhoods throughout Ward 25 face increased pressure from development and intensification, we must ensure that community services and green spaces are in place to support these changes.

A public green space at 100 Ranleigh would serve residents throughout this neighbourhood and aide in the creation of a larger community space that includes the school and community centre immediately to the south.

Throughout the summer, I was in constant communication with staff in Parks, Forestry & Recreation, City Planning, Real Estate Services and the City Manager’s office to move this issue forward.

Today I’m pleased to confirm that the city has successfully negotiated an agreement in principle to purchase 100 Ranleigh.

We negotiated into the late hours yesterday to get today’s OMB hearing adjourned.

City staff will be bringing forward a report this fall to the Government Management Committee and then City Council for approval of purchase of the lands.

Thank you for your continued engagement through this process. Thanks are also due to the Bedford-Wanless Ratepayers’ Association (BWRA) for their ongoing support.

I’ll be sure to keep you updated with the advancement of this issue at Council in the coming months. As we move forward with long-term plans for this space, I’ll ensure that there will be ample opportunity for consultation and input from community residents.

Warm regards,

Jaye