The Committee of Adjustment turned down a request from the Toronto District School Board (TDSB) to sell off part of the green space at the Bannockburn School. Despite this, many are still anticipating an appeal or proposals to sever other school lots.
“We don’t know if there are other schools in the ward that are on the chopping block,” said Trish McMahon, a local parent who rallied against the sale. “They make these decisions behind closed doors.”
The idea to sell off parcels of land deemed as surplus was first leaked in late 2012, and last October the plan to sell off Bannockburn’s space came to light. The plan was met with opposition from the community, who say that the green space is one of the most vital hubs in the area.
“This green space is used heavily by the community,” said Alyssa Berenstein, who co-ordinates the Armour Heights Baseball League. “While the TDSB may have deemed it surplus, this space is heavily used.”
Member of provincial parliament Mike Colle says that taking away green space in the area is completely wrong, considering the neighbourhood is already operating on a shortage of it. “There’s intensification everywhere,” he said. “Whatever open space we had, it’s critical that there’s greater protection.”
Colle felt the school board should have included members of the community in discussions: “They’ve got to consult, they’ve got to explore all options — they didn’t do this.”
The TDSB has 90 days to appeal the committee’s decision to the Ontario Municipal Board. Berenstein says that she and her neighbours are attempting to remain realistic. “We are preparing for the next ground swell in case they decide to appeal,” she said.
But Coun. Karen Stintz said she would be surprised if the board decided to appeal. “Given the city’s interest in working with the school board on keeping this land parkland and the community outrage, plus the fact that the process wasn’t followed, I would be shocked,” she said.
The TDSB did not return calls for comment.