More support needed for Island projects

I read the column by Sydney & Area Chamber of Commerce CEO Adrian White (“Measuring emotions against well-researched science,” Cape Breton Post, Nov. 22) with great interest.

Another article in the Post on Wednesday concerned a petition to oppose development of a RV campground in Big Pond.

It amazes me that people will criticize instead of supporting. It is time they get behind and support these projects.

I am a former Devco employee and for those people who are complaining about mine safety at Donkin and pointing the finger, they must remember there are three more pointing back.

Our island cannot survive if we continue our negative attitude towards progress.

In the late 1970s, test holes were being drilled off the coast to verify nearby coal. That was nearly 40 years and we still have a lucrative fishing industry. Chris Morrison Sydney

In regards to the front-page story on Nov. 22 (“Park proposal,” Cape Breton Post) about a proposed campground for Big Pond, I think the Cape Breton Regional Municipality planning committee should study this carefully along with all our elected representatives.

Firstly, from the number of names on the petition it would seem the residents of the area who have been paying taxes for many years don’t want it.

Secondly, a project that will be detrimental to other similar businesses is not good planning at all. It was mentioned to me this week that it will not hurt other campgrounds but if the developer has a pot full of money to build water slides, zip lines, etc., how can it not?

Seasonal campers are just one part of a campground’s revenue. These campgrounds also need the day-to-day campers to survive and flourish.

If CBRM says yes to this development perhaps it should give all the other facilities the money to add these things so it will be a level playing field.

Just because someone from away flashes a bunch of money does not in itself make it a good idea if it harms other businesses. Planning like this is not good planning and is short sighted. Roland L. Doncaster Marion Bridge