In Scarborough’s industrial lands, locals must choose between housing and jobs

Jul 14, 2023 · 4:31 am · 1 min read

📸 New Forest Paper Mill as seen from the outside. (Aloysius Wong/The Green Line)

New residential buildings tower over industrial zones in Scarborough and across Toronto, bringing in much-needed housing, but putting heavy industry jobs at risk.

Anthony Milton

A sign for a proposed residential development is posted on a fence. Behind it, heavy machinery sits unused. — 📸 A development for four connected towers are proposed at this empty site at 1680 Brimley Rd., a short walk from the New Forest Paper Mill. (Aloysius Wong/*The Green Line*)

For decades, New Forest Paper Mill — a provider of stable, unionized jobs — has been neatly cordoned off in an industrial zone just west of Scarborough Town Centre. But times are changing.

In May, the City of Toronto gave the green light for two large condo towers to go up next door, which is causing concern for the owners. If new residents complain about the noise and truck traffic, the Ontario government could shut down New Forest, trading well-paying jobs for housing in a neighbourhood that’s in urgent need of both.

Read our full original story by Anthony Milton here.