The Editor, Re: "Richmond Walmart hits buffer again," News, Sept. 18.
It's frustrating to see this project once again being placed on hold. If anyone has been to the area as of late I think they would agree that it might as well be deemed uninhabitable.
The plans that were put forth more than 10 years ago are a direct result of why the properties have been neglected, abandoned, and in most cases torn down. The level of vagrant and criminal activity has increased dramatically.
The two councillors that were against this proposal need to look at the overall impact to society, not simply the environmental impact. The economic benefits to Richmond far outweigh the environmental concerns (of which some are addressed by the developer) that residents and councillors are putting forth.
Are we forgetting about the hundreds of jobs that will be created throughout the life of this project, and thereafter? What else can be done with these vacant, abandoned properties? The taxpaying owners of these properties have spoken: "Develop the land, or let it remain as a vacant eyesore in Richmond, attracting unwanted activity."
Sundeep Gill
Richmond
