Retired businessman Harry Steele suing over construction on Gander’s Memorial Drive

Retired businessman Harry Steele, 88, has filed a suit over work being down near his home on Memorial Drive.

The Department of Transportation and Works is currently constructing a new turnoff that would direct traffic at the intersection of the Trans-canada Highway and Magee Road in Gander.

The project was begun earlier in the year and, previously unbeknownst to Steele, will direct a turning lane directly across from his residence.

According to an affidavit filed in court, Steele only became aware of the development once construction began.

“The biggest issue will be the headlights shining directly into our front window all hours of the night,” wrote Steele. “I do not feel it is fair that having lived in this residence for more than 40 years that we should now be subjected to this kind of activity during our retirement years.”

Although Steele has had business interests across North America, he has always maintained his primary residence in Gander.

Both John Steele and Rob Steele, Steele’s sons, also filed documents at court in support of their father’s suit.

In his affidavit, John said that in an attempt to avoid litigation, he made contact with government officials to address the issue.

“It became clear that officials in the Department of Transportation and Works were not interested in having any discussions,” wrote John, who lives in St. John’s.

John suggested that the issue could be solved by moving the entry onto Memorial Drive 50 feet to the west.

Steele is expected in court next week.