A "Circle the Woodland" rally brought hundreds to Southampton May 18. Photo submitted.

May 28 Update: In the May 27 meeting in Council Chambers, Saugeen Shores Council voted unanimously to refuse the Local Official Plan Amendment based on the following reasons:

1. Public comments received with respect to the application
2. Insufficient planning and environmental justification to recommend approval
3. Woodlands area should be reviewed appropriately, in its entirety, during the Town of Saugeen Shores Official Plan review.

Hub Staff

In a planning meeting May 21, Saugeen Shores Council, sitting as Committee of Whole, recommended that the planning amendment application that would remove protections from a Southampton woodland be rejected.

A "Circle the Woodland" rally was held on Saturday, May 18 where organizers called on concerned residents, ratepayers and visitors to "circle" the approximate 30 acre natural area in Southampton.

In a Circle the Woodland media release, hundreds attended the rally and lined the approximate 3,600 foot perimeter. “I am amazed at how many have shown up today," said organizer Brian Putman, calling the turnout "truly phenomenal."

The meeting May 21 was also well attended and the recommendation resulted in uproarious applause. A final decision is expected May 27 in Council Chambers.

An aerial view of the "Circle the Woodland" rally Victoria Day weekend. Photo submitted.

Editor's Note: A previous version of this story stated the planning meeting was held May 22 when in fact it was held May 21. The story has been corrected above.