Cadillac Fairview says it is co-operating with Quebec’s environment ministry on a proposed expansion at Pointe-Claire shopping centre in Greater Montreal.

The redevelopment has come under fire from environmentalists who, citing a new study, claim that the project could harm at least 35 species at risk. The mall is near an urban forest containing a large wetlands area.

“Regarding our project in Pointe-Claire, we have fully co-operated with the Ministry of Environment, the Fight Against Climate Change, Wildlife and Parks, for over five years,” said CF in a statement.

CF noted that that construction permits have not been issued for any part of the project. Toronto-based CF plans to develop residential units on part of the mall’s parking lot, a heat island, located adjacent to a rapid-transit station.

“Unfortunately, the City of Pointe-Claire has blocked all new residential development on our property even though the parking lot has been designated as an area to be developed as a transit-oriented development (TOD).”

Photo: Cadillac Fairview