Premier Pleased with Utility and Review Board Decision

Premier Rodney MacDonald today, March 26, said he is pleased with the Utility and Review Board decision on the waterfront development proposal for downtown Halifax.

The board overturned a Halifax regional council decision that would have prevented the development from proceeding.

"I am very happy with this result," said Premier MacDonald. "We need downtown development. We need the office space, and we need the jobs these projects provide, and it will bring more prime office space and economic development to HRM. As well, it will preserve valuable heritage resources."

The premier first voiced his support for the project after council ruled last October the project would not proceed. He said he still believes downtown development is important for the future of HRM, the surrounding area, and the province.

"I voiced my opinion, and the province spoke in favour of the development at the board hearings," said Premier MacDonald. "I still believe that development in the downtown is necessary to help attract companies to the province, provide employment and grow the tax base."

The premier hopes the regional council will abide by the decision, and the developer is able to begin work on the project as soon as possible.