The Northeast Swale Watchers group is withdrawing from a major Saskatoon Freeway study, after saying they feel ignored in the process. That according to a letter sent by Chair Louise Jones to city council at this week’s Transportation committee meeting.

In the letter Jones says while the group feels it still has much to contribute to the conversation, they feel ignored by the Ministry of Highway’s Heritage Technical Working Group, which is leading the study.

The letter says the Swale Watchers have been advocating for the protection of the natural area for eight years and have lost confidence in the consultation process.
Jones says to their dismay the group was recently informed consultation would only continue if members agreed not to bring up any issues they have been raising. Jones adds group members even had their comments edited on the Saskatoon Freeway’s website.

Saskatoon’s Mayor says he is concerned and that it is important to find a balance between sensitive conservation issues and the design and orientation of the roadway. Charlie Clark says to ensure that when it is designed, because they don’t know when the roadway will be built, that each step of the way, the absolute best practices are put in place when it comes to the impact on the Swale and sensitive ecological areas.

Jones concluded the letter by saying while they are withdrawing from the Heritage Technical Working Group they will continue to provide a strong well-informed collective voice for the protection of the Northeast Swale.

The Deputy Minster of the Ministry of Highways responded to the letter by saying the Ministry will continue to keep a spot open for the Swale Watchers.