RURAL PLANNING AND DEVELOPMENT 235 



with the expropriation of land in the different provinces should be ex- 

 tended under an Act to simplify the purchase of land especially for 

 open spaces. 



13. Powers in Case of Default, etc. — The provincial de- 

 partment should be the superior authority in determining any question 

 which may arise between the different parties interested in giving 

 effect to a scheme and any appeals or representations made under it. 



In considering the character and scope of the proposed planning 

 and development legislation we have to bear in mind that it is de- 

 signed to meet a complex and many-sided problem or series of prob- 

 lems and a variety of contingencies in different kinds of area. Greater 

 simplicity might be possible under conditions where autocratic gov- 

 ernment were possible; but under our democratic conditions it is 

 essential to impose restraint on bad development and to encourage 

 good development by means which cannot be fairly criticized as an 

 undue and improper interference with the liberty of the subjects. 

 In course of time, experience may show some easier and more direct 

 method of attaining the object aimed at, but until that experience 

 is obtained we should err on the side of protecting such private inter- 

 ests as are not proved to be in conflict with the public welfare. 



CONCLUSION 



In conclusion it is contended that proper control of the development 

 of land cannot be secured without the preparation of comprehensive 

 development schemes, in which consideration will be given to all matters 

 affecting public convenience, health and amenity; and that one of the 

 most urgent matters in connection with the conservation and develop- 

 ment of land and human resources in Canada is the promotion of plan- 

 ning and development legislation, and its effective administration, in 

 accordance with the objects and principles outlined in this chapter. 



