Premier Ford reverses Greenbelt decision

Province to protect vital environmental area

"I made a mistake," Ford says

Ontario Premier Doug Ford announced Thursday that he is reversing his decision to open up protected Greenbelt land for development.

The Greenbelt is a 1.8 million-acre area of protected land that surrounds the Greater Toronto Area. It was created in 2005 to protect the region's water, air and food supply.

Ford's government announced in April that it would open up 7,400 acres of Greenbelt land for development. The decision was met with widespread opposition from environmental groups, municipalities and the general public.

Ford said Thursday that he reversed his decision because he listened to the concerns of Ontarians.

"I made a mistake," Ford said. "I heard from the people of Ontario, and I understand that they want to protect the Greenbelt."

The premier said the province will now work with municipalities to develop a plan to protect the Greenbelt.

"We will work with our municipal partners to develop a plan that will protect the Greenbelt, while also allowing for some growth and development," Ford said.

The decision to reverse the Greenbelt opening is a victory for environmentalists and municipalities. It is also a sign that Ford is listening to the concerns of Ontarians.