DDO Hydro line opponents gearing up for possible court battle

Even though the provincial government has approved Hydro-Quebec’s plan to build a new aerial power line in Dollard-des-Ormeaux, opponents say the fight against the project isn’t over yet.

A group of residents who oppose the plan, called Build It Underground DDO, said they are now speaking with lawyers and exploring how they can fight the project in court.

“We’re currently exploring a judicial path to ensure that if there is an aerial installation of this project, residents along the trajectory are adequately compensated for the devaluation of the market value of their homes,” said DDO resident, Lynette Gilbeau.

READ MORE: DDO residents vow to push for underground powerlines

Hydro-Quebec plans to build 52-metre high pylons along a three-kilometre stretch of de Salaberry Bouleverd, between St-Jean and Sources boulevards. The problem is that it would cut through a residential neighbourhood.

The new pylons are expected to be much taller than the existing ones and carry more than double the electricity.

READ MORE: DDO wants transparency on Hydro-Quebec transmission line project

But some residents in DDO who oppose the project believe the aerial towers would depreciate the value of their homes.

READ MORE: Government gives Hydro-Quebec green light for DDO transmission project

They wanted Hydro to build the power lines underground instead.

However, back in February, Hydro refused, saying the cost to build underground would be significantly higher.

WATCH BELOW: DDO Hydo line dispute

2:37 DDO Hydro-line drama

• DDO Hydro-line drama
• Quebec approves DDO Hydro line
• How much will DDO Hydro lines cost?
• DDO residents rally against planned Hydro-Quebec project
• DDO residents remain vocal opponents to proposed Hydro-Quebec transmission lines
• DDO fights Hydro over transmission lines
• DDO power line information session
• DDO power line hearings

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Gilbeau said she has sought the help of their local MNA and finance minister, Carlos Leitão, over the course of this ordeal, but she said, he hasn’t been very responsive.

“I reached out to Mr. Leitao in May 2015, had a brief meeting with him at that time, he assured us he would get back to us within three weeks,” she said.

“It will be two years in May 2017 since we’ve heard from Mr. Leitao – despite repeated efforts to reach him by email, by letter, by phone.”

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Leitão refused Global News’ request for an interview, but his spokesperson said both Leitão and his cabinet have met with DDO’s mayor and its citizens multiple times.

“BAPE has recommended a working committee to implement the project. We have to let them work and hopefully they can accommodate everyone involved.”

Leitão said he will not interfere with Hydro-Quebec’s plans.