Stop the removal of this beautiful city-owned shade tree! Sign the petition calling on Councillor Jeff Leiper to take action and oppose the rezoning of 342 Roosevelt Avenue: https://www.change.org/p/save-the-bur-oak
Applicant’s Proposal
The City of Ottawa has received a Zoning By-law Amendment and Site Plan Control application for 342 Roosevelt Avenue to permit a six-storey mid-rise building with 26 residential dwelling units, as shown.
Should this development proceed as proposed, the beloved Bur Oak tree will be sacrificed.
The plans filed with the City can be viewed here. The Planner responsible for this project welcomes your comments, which can be submitted here until February 24, 2025.
Councillor Leiper’s perspective here.
Why save this tree?
Westboro has some of the highest rates of intensification. As more homes are demolished, Westboro is losing much of its tree canopy. According to the latest research of Dr. Rachel Buxton at Carleton University, as the impact of climate change increases, the loss of trees and biodiversity in a neighbourhood has a detrimental impact on residents’ mental health. We only need to hear traffic reports to know Westboro’s air quality is also on the decline and affecting physical health.
Every tree matters. This over 100 year-old Bur Oak tree is strategically located at the northern end of Roosevelt, on land that could benefit all residents, and offers a green gateway to the LRT and the Ottawa River.
So let’s save the Bur Oak on Roosevelt Avenue, a mature tree that captures carbon emissions, provides shade, and is resistant to air pollution and car exhaust, making it an excellent choice for this urban area. Allow this tree to continue to provide joy and health to humans, as well as housing for over 120 species, including butterflies, birds and mammals. We urge you to join us in advocating for an environmentally healthy, community-focused vision for Roosevelt Avenue, and the surrounding area, by safeguarding this tree.
Residents of Roosevelt Avenue
Westboro Community Association
Westboro Community Beach Association
Neighbour’s view, also in strong opposition, is here.
Robust resistance to the removal of the Bur Oak, and this development in general, was expressed during the open house held on Wednesday, February 5, 2025. The recording of the meeting can be viewed here.