Sophie Demers

LJI Reporter

The Buckingham Residents Association was founded in April of 2024. The association began after residents became aware of zoning changes that were made in Buckingham’s city centre. The residents wanted to be more involved in their municipal government and be the voice of those living in the area when decisions were being made about their neighbourhood.

“We spoke with Gatineau about a Plan Particulier d’Urbanisme (PPU) for the avenue de Buckingham,” said Jeanne LeBlanc, the association’s president, reflecting on the work the association has done in their first year. “We also made the request so that the city could look at a plan of integration and implementation for developments in Buckingham’s urban core and we even had a meeting with the mayor in the fall to tell her about these issues that we would like the city to take into consideration.”

The association meets with Buckingham councillor Edmond Leclerc before every city council meeting to discuss the agenda and any issues or concerns that residents may have.

Currently there are approximately 50 active members, including the association’s board. LeBlanc says they are always looking for more people to take part and get involved. There are two positions on the board that need to be filled.

“We think that what is unique in Buckingham are the green spaces, homeowners with large land plots and the development potential in our urban centre”, said Leblanc highlighting the association’s passion for the area and their hopes for the future.

The association is advocating for densification while also ensuring landowners can keep their lots, the conservation of green spaces, keeping businesses open and accessible, and transportation.

Buckingham residents who want to get involved can contact the association by email at ARB.19.2024@gmail.com

Photo: The founding Board of Directors of the Buckingham Residents Association with City councillor. From left to right Edmond Leclerc, Jeanne LeBlanc, Hélène Rollin Rollin, Pierre-Antoine Carrière, Nicole Robitaille-Carrière, Nadia Robichaud (SD) Photo: courtesy