Atlantic Canada
Climate Network
What’s Happening?
Lorneville is a small coastal community on the west side of Saint John. In 1967, it was annexed into the city against residents’ wishes. Just four years later, in 1971, 8,000 acres of land were forcibly expropriated with little to no notice.
Now, the City of Saint John and the Province of New Brunswick are proposing a new threat to the community’s health and environment:
Over 1,000 acres of mature forest—including more than 200 acres of wetlands—are at risk of being clearcut to expand the Spruce Lake Industrial Park for heavy industrial use.
This development would bring industrial activity to just 150 metres from people’s homes, where families rely on private wells for their drinking water. The targeted land is also the only natural buffer between these homes and a former dump site that still leaks toxic runoff.
CBC News. (2023, February 22). Spruce Lake Industrial Park expansion draws concern from Saint John residents. CBC News. https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/new-brunswick/spruce-lake-industrial-park-expansion-city-of-saint-john-save-lorneville-1.7499460
What the Community Is Saying
“We’re not against development—but not heavy industry, not 150 metres from our homes, and not at the cost of a thriving ecosystem in a time of accelerating climate change.”
Why This Matters
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Environmental Impact: Over 1,000 acres of mature forest and 200 acres of wetlands play a crucial role in local biodiversity and water protection.
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Public Health: Homes depend on nearby private wells, which could be contaminated by runoff and construction activity.
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Climate Resilience: Destroying carbon-storing forests and wetlands is a direct contradiction of climate adaptation goals.
The ACCN Stands with the Lorneville Community
At the Atlantic Canada Climate Network, we believe in responsible development that puts community well-being and climate resilience first. We stand with the residents of Lorneville as they call for alternatives that protect nature, health, and future generations.
Take Action
Want to help protect Lorneville? Here's what you can do:
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🖊️ Sign the Petitions:
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🧾 Write to Your MLA – Ask them to halt the industrial expansion in Lorneville
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📍 Attend a Community Event – add them to our event calendar
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🔄 Share This Page – Spread the word on social media using #ProtectLorneville
Recap on the whole issue since the beginning
this is what was originally proposed to the Planning Advisory Committee on October 8, 2024.
Tracking the Movement for Lorneville
This page will be updated regularly as new information becomes available. Check back for updates on community events, actions, and developments related to the proposed expansion in Lorneville.