The City of St. John’s is not ready to accept a request from government to occupy Crown land between Kenmount Road and Topsail Road. It’s about what’s referred to as the 190-meter contour, which means a tower will be required to provide water service.

The Department of Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture sought permission to occupy about 25 hectares of land in the vicinity of George’s Pond Road, but the city does not yet have a development plan for the area finalized.

The city says release of the Crown land in that area would be premature at this time because of the recent announcement that the replacement for St. Clare’s Hospital would be built in the area. That facility would require construction of a water tower, something would likely benefit all three municipalities: St. John’s, Mount Pearl and Paradise.

Meanwhile, Councillor Greg Noseworthy says the area in question abuts Cowan Heights, so it’s important that people follow the discussion. There is a public engagement session this evening from 5-8 at St. Matthews Elementary.

Noseworthy, who grew up on Frecker Drive, says when there was a development near Frecker and Charrington Drive, “we had a lot of water issues and there was a lot of flooding. So, making sure that when we are doing these developments, we have the appropriate planning, the water retention plan is in place, and that we’re not barred by the regulations.”