PRESS RELEASE: BRIGIL COMMITS TO PROTECTING THE BOUCHER FOREST WITH THE ACQUISITION OF 600 CHEMIN VANIER.

PRESS RELEASE
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

BRIGIL COMMITS TO PROTECTING FORÊT BOUCHER WITH ACQUISITION OF 600 VANIER ROAD

Gatineau, Tuesday, October 5, 2021 – The Desjardins family confirms that Brigil has acquired the property located at 600 Vanier Road (Aylmer sector), adjacent to Forêt Boucher, with plans to protect the forest.

Previously zoned “industrial 1 storey,” the municipal council has changed the land use of this 80-acre property to allow residential development up to 10 storeys and low- to mid-intensity commercial space under the latest urban plan. The area is considered strategic for residential development while protecting the urban perimeter and supporting sustainable mobility through a future structured transit system.

On the property, a 30-to-50-year-old cedar grove and a 150-year-old maple grove will be fully preserved. Two independent environmental studies indicate that the developable portion of the land has low ecological value and is heavily invaded by common buckthorn, an exotic plant threatening local biodiversity. The project will actively reduce this invasive species, benefiting the forest.

“I am a proud environmental advocate and I am committed to creating a community-oriented project that aligns with sustainable development principles,” said Jessy Desjardins, Vice President of Development and Design at Brigil. Brigil will soon meet with citizen committees to gather feedback and design a signature project.

The project will integrate protected natural areas, native plantings, nearby services, and communal spaces while promoting structured public transit. High environmental certifications are expected, and collaboration with the Forêt Boucher Foundation and CREDDO will ensure the project’s relevance and positive impact.

Key figures:

• Forêt Boucher covers 741 acres.
• 110.7 acres are designated for residential development and transit infrastructure under the new urban plan.
• The land acquired by Brigil represents 80 acres (11% of the forest), with 25 acres fully protected. The new community will be built on 55 acres (7% of the forest).

About Brigil
Founded in 1985 by Gilles Desjardins, Brigil has contributed significantly to the economic growth of Canada’s National Capital Region. The company currently manages around forty communities (12,500 units) and plans to build 44,500 new units. Committed to sustainable development, environmental protection, and heritage preservation, Brigil goes beyond building to act as a civic-minded developer.