On Thursday, January 21, the Board of Directors of the National Capital Commission (NCC) approved the new Gatineau Park Master Plan, an update of the previous Master Plan approved in 2005.
The master plan, which will be implemented over the next 10 to 15 years, is structured around four key objectives:
- conserving nature
- providing recreational and cultural experiences in nature
- promoting equitable and sustainable access
- fostering engagement and collaboration
This new master plan is the product of three years of consultation. The NCC team held 13 public consultation meetings in Ottawa, Gatineau, Chelsea, La Pêche and Pontiac, as well as six online consultations and five meetings with the Public Advisory Committee, in addition to meetings with representatives of the Algonquin Nation, local municipalities, elected representatives and stakeholders throughout the region.
In concrete terms, the new master plan aims to close numerous unofficial trails, acquire private land in the Park, protect ecological corridors that connect the Park with other natural areas in the region, and seek greater legal protection for the Park, in order to improve habitats and reduce the infrastructure footprint.
With this master plan, the NCC is initiating a dialogue with the Algonquin community to restore its traditional connection with Gatineau Park territory, and highlight its culture and history.
The Board-approved Gatineau Park Master Plan will be available on the NCC’s website on February 11, 2021.
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