New Depot in Amherst

Department of Transportation and Public Works is selling its garage depot site in Amherst and moving to the industrial park.

Ernest Fage, Minister of Energy, made the announcement in Amherst today on behalf of Michael Baker, Minister of Transportation and Public Works.

Plaza BNG Inc. purchased the garage depot property from the province for $1.8 million. The company is planning a retail development on the site.

"This is great news for Amherst and its local economy," said Mr. Fage. "The province will end up with a new, modern facility in a much better location and the developer gains access to property that is required for a major retail-commercial development. It's a real win for taxpayers."

The province will continue to operate an area office, maintenance storage garage and salt/sand facility in the Amherst Industrial Park. The province will provide the same level of service as the past in Cumberland County.

Service Nova Scotia and Municipal Relations offices, which are located in the depot, will be part of the new retail development.

It is expected that the Department of Transportation and Public Works will move into the Amherst Industrial Park in the early fall.