Site Chosen for Bridgewater School

A new school for French first-language students in the Bridgewater area is another step closer with the selection of a site.

The new school, which will replace École de la Rive-Sud, will be built outside Bridgewater, off Highway 103 at Exit 12, in a development called Osprey Village.

"The students of École de la Rive-Sud will soon be attending a modern, well-equipped school," said Education Minister Judy Streatch. "The site selection process has taken longer than expected, but I am pleased the considerable time and effort expended has resulted in a site selection."

The new school will have up to 285 French first-language students from the region. It will cost about $13 million to build.

"We are extremely satisfied that the site has been selected and confirmed. This announcement is a new beginning for students, parents and teachers in the Bridgewater and surrounding area," said Kenneth Gaudet, chair of the Conseil scolaire acadien provincial. "Students will enter a school with all the modern facilities and technology. It will certainly enhance the linguistic and cultural experience of students of entitled parents in the area. As well, the new school will serve as a central location for community groups to meet."

The Department of Education announced in January 2006 that the Primary to Grade 12 facility, expected to be completed in 2010, will replace École de la Rive-Sud in Blockhouse, Lunenburg Co.

The Department of Transportation and Infrastructure Renewal will oversee the design and construction of the new school.

The site was sold to the province by the Municipality of the District of Lunenburg.

A sod-turning ceremony in the spring will mark the start of construction.