South Knowlesville
Community Land Trust
111 Simms Rd
Knowlesville, NB
E7L 4P7
Canada
506.375.8623

Neighbourhood Goals & Vision

The goal of sustainability will shape the way we develop and use the land. We need people to provide the supportive community. This builds relationships, lessens daily travel, protects the environment and offers prospects for right livelihood.

ECOLOGY:

Conservation and Renewable Energy: Solar, wind, micro-hydro and geothermal energy are being considered. Any surplus power would be offered to the electrical power grid. A conservation strategy will minimize the amount of power used by the community.

Natural Building Code: Design and construction will be in accordance with natural building criteria. Natural building practices include use of salvaged, recycled and locally produced materials. Buildings will be energy and resource efficient. They will employ non-toxic materials to improve indoor air quality.

Zero Waste Economy: Rethink, reduce, reuse, and recycle. These strategies will be employed to create a near zero-waste economy.

Alternative Transportation: The design of the community will be pedestrian-friendly to encourage walking, cycling, skiing, snow shoeing and other non-motorized transportation. Trails and pathways will be an important feature of the landscape design. The use of electrical and
hybrid fuel vehicles, minivan shuttles and car co-ops will also be encouraged.

SOCIAL:

Cluster/Commons: Clustering housing is an age-old concept with renewed relevance today. It allows for shared common spaces - facilities and lands.

Innovative Housing: Private homes and shared facilities provide a balance between community and privacy. A range of housing options will be available for various ages, lifestyles, family types and income levels. Housing can be made affordable by using basic finishes, flexible spaces, a compact footprint, durable materials and participation of the future owner.

Alternative Education: Formal and informal learning opportunities will occur with the establishment of the neighbourhood, through the building projects, the establishment of a working farm and by building a physical space for a small community learning centre (the Knowlesville Art and Nature Centre, which will be moved to the site in Spring 2008). The setting also promotes "natural learning" for children and youth.

Accessibility: The South Knowlesville neighbourhood will be accessible to a diverse mix of people. Costs will be kept accessible and options for people to contribute towards their lot lease or homes through volunteer community labour may also be available (i.e. sweat equity).

Life Cycle: We desire that the full cycle of life is represented and balanced in the neighbourhood, a balance of people at every stage of life cycle, from infants to the very old. Projects such as a community greenhouse and gardening program could blend old and young in community activities, providing benefits for all.

Internet Connections: The goal is to provide high-speed internet connection to enhance community infrastructure, provide learning opportunities and lower commuting costs.

ECONOMIC:

Organic Farm: The 20 acres of farmland will support organic orchards, herb crops, vegetables, grains and livestock.

Live/Work: Live/work studios are a combination of a house and a shop. Considering the distance from basic services and stores, the South Knowlesville Community Land Trust will encourage future residents to consider setting up small scale commercial ventures on-site, whether in their own homes or in a mixed-commercial zone within the neighbourhood. The live/work option will reduce commuting and enliven and beautify the neighbourhood. Live/work situations incubate new businesses. Working in one's community increases leisure time.

Potential Businesses: Potential businesses in the South Knowlesville CLT could include a traveler’s inn/café, organic produce store, arts and crafts guild (cooperative), holistic health services, and a wide range of cottage industries (from environmental services and renewable energy consulting to graphic design and bookkeeping).