NS News: Province Adopts Statement of Provincial Interest at HRM’s Request

The province is agreeing to a Halifax Regional Municipality request to give it more flexibility so underground construction on the Nova Centre project in downtown Halifax can continue.

HRM requested the province adopt a Statement of Provincial Interest to allow the work while charges to above-ground plans are considered.

“The Nova Centre is important to the entire province,” said Service Nova Scotia and Municipal Relations Minister John MacDonell. “We are ensuring initial work can move forward while revised plans for upper floors go through municipal approval and consultations.”

“The province is giving HRM the flexibility to avoid a delay in the project, so it can provide growth for the province and ensure we remains competitive. It’s important for all Nova Scotias that the three levels of government work together to create new jobs and grow a strong economy.”

The Nova Centre developer has proposed several significant changes to the approved design after feedback from public consultations across the province last summer. The new plans need HRM approval and public consulations.

Nova Centre is the largest integrated development project in Nova Scotia’s history. It will create thousands of jobs, attract thousands of visitors, revitalize downtown Halifax and grow the provincial economy. All three levels of government are investing in the convention centre part of the complex. In 10 years, the convention centre is expected to generate $85 million in provincial tax revenue, which will support essential services like health care and education.

Source: Release

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