In a recent development, the Ontario Land Tribunal has greenlit an expansion project for the Lanci Pit, operated by CBM Aggregates, a division of St. Marys Cement Inc. With this approval, the company, known for its extensive operations across Ontario with over 60 gravel pits and quarries, is now setting its sights on further growth.
The expansion at the Lanci Pit encompasses an additional 36.5 acres, including a 10-hectare extraction area. Situated on Concession 2 near Aberfoyle, the original pit spanned over 60 acres before the expansion plans took shape. According to CBM Aggregates’ website, this enlarged area holds a substantial reserve of approximately four million tonnes of sand and gravel resources.
However, this expansion doesn’t mark the end of CBM’s ambitions. The company is also seeking approval for a new pit, the Aberfoyle South Pit expansion. This proposed site, located a bit further down Concession 2, covers an extraction area of nearly 68 acres, with resources estimated at around 5.5 million tonnes of sand and gravel. The extraction process is slated to span six to ten years, operating both above and below the water table.
CBM’s expansion plans come with a commitment to responsible practices. The company emphasizes that there will be no increase in annual tonnage shipped from the Lanci Pit expansion site. Existing haul routes will remain in use, ensuring no truck traffic on Sideroad 25, and operating hours will stay consistent from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Regarding the Aberfoyle South Pit expansion, CBM plans to prevent trucks from traveling west on Concession 2 or using Sideroad 20. The pit will have a new entrance at its east end, with a minimum setback of 30 metres from the adjacent Mill Creek Provincially Significant Wetland (PSW) to mitigate environmental impacts. Technical studies have been conducted to assess potential effects on the PSW, Mill Creek, and other natural features, ensuring thorough examination and adherence to regulatory standards.
To engage with the public and address any concerns, CBM is organizing a virtual public information session scheduled for May 8 from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Interested parties can register in advance for the session through the provided link.
