The deadline to take part in a survey regarding the St. Peter’s Coastal Trail has come and gone, but the ATV debate will likely continue.
Natural Resources has managed the abandoned rail corridor for more than 30 years. Now they are considering allowing motorized traffic on it, which has been a contentious topic for years.
Some in the community are opposed to letting ATVs on the 3 km stretch between the village and River Tillard because they say it is used by people and families plus it presents a risk of disturbing wildlife. Those who are for it say allowing ATV enthusiasts would be good for local business, tourism and trail maintenance.
The government of Nova Scotia and the consulting firm, ATN, have been seeking public input on issues such as the nature trail’s use, development and management.
Nearly 200 people attended an open-house at the Lion’s Club in St. Peter’s earlier this month and the online survey on the trail’s future closed on the weekend.
More consultation is expected as meetings are planned with those who own homes along the trail.
