There is no doubt that there is a need to improve the resident and visitor experience in downtown Tobermory. However, I was very disappointed to read that the Chamber of Commerce’s plan is to remove trees to create more open space, while the downtown core remains dedicated to cars.
Taking their lead from the 1960s, the Chamber is convinced that the secret to a successful business area is to have customers park as close as possible to their stores whereas successful pedestrian downtowns with patios, greenery and access to beautiful waterfronts around the world are thriving.
No, in Tobermory we’ll keep the best views for the polluting cars, raise pedestrian’s (including locals’) stress levels from angry motorists, and cut down more trees – this kind of antiquated thinking is why this village is going downhill fast, becoming a place where those who can are moving away, locals can no longer afford to live here, and visitors can do what they want.
Does anyone care?
Arlene Kennedy
