The Federal Court of Canada has ruled in favour of the Halton municipalities who've been fighting CN’s plans for a large truck-rail facility in Milton.
On Friday (March 1), the court found the previous decisions of the federal minister and cabinet approving the intermodal facility "failed to fulfill their duty to protect human health," according to the Region.
“The court noted federal cabinet’s decision was flawed and unreasonable,” said Halton Regional Chair Gary Carr. “Our concerns about the health and safety of our residents have been heard loud and clear and we are very pleased with the court’s decision.”
CN's plans now can't proceed without going back to the federal government for reconsideration, including a full evaluation of the effects of the project.
“This has been a long battle to protect the health of our residents,” said Milton Mayor Gordon Krantz. “We are delighted that our concerns have been heard.”
In 2020, the Environmental Review Panel found that CN’s proposed truck-rail facility in Milton would have "significant adverse effects" on the health of Halton residents. There are also additional concerns about safety due to the potential for increased traffic.
In previous statements to the media, CN has said the truck-rail hub is a much-needed addition to the Canadian supply chain to meet the growing demand for transporting goods into the Greater Toronto and Hamilton area. The company's website also asserts that the project will help reduce greenhouse gas emissions and create jobs.
The project site is located within one kilometre of more than 34,000 residents, one hospital, 12 schools, and two long-term care homes.
For more on the Halton municipalities’ position on the project, visit halton.ca/CN.
