Canada’s Supreme Court has cleared the way for Canadian National Railway to begin construction on its new intermodal terminal in Milton, Ontario, following years of legal disputes in Canada’s fastest-growing region. This is reported by the railway transport news portal Railway Supply.

Canada’s Supreme Court has cleared the way for Canadian National Railway to begin construction on its new intermodal terminal in Milton, Ontario, following years of legal disputes in Canada’s fastest-growing region.

The court dismissed an appeal on May 8 without providing reasons, ending efforts by Halton Region and its municipalities to stop the $180 million project. This ruling allows CN to move forward with the development.

Canada terminal gains final legal approval

Federal authorities first approved the Milton Logistics Hub in 2021 under the Canadian Environmental Assessment Act, attaching 325 strict conditions to reduce environmental impact. CN proposed the terminal back in 2015.

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Despite federal clearance, local governments continued their legal fight, citing health risks and increased truck traffic. Around 800 trucks are expected to make daily trips to the terminal, raising concerns over pollution and congestion.

In October 2023, an appeals court supported the project’s approval, acknowledging potential environmental effects but recognizing the terminal’s economic importance. A separate March 2024 decision echoed worries about air quality near the site.

Canada intermodal expansion supports growth

CN operates three terminals in the Toronto area, all currently at full capacity. Its largest facility in Brampton faces space limits due to surrounding development, creating a pressing need for expansion.

The Milton terminal is designed to handle four trains daily in its initial phase. CN believes the project is vital for long-term freight efficiency in southern Canada, especially in the growing Greater Toronto market.

With legal hurdles now removed, CN is expected to begin construction shortly. The terminal will strengthen the company’s presence in Canada’s most active logistics corridor and support future freight growth across the region.

Source: www.trains.com

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