N.S. government yet to make plan for land bought at Shannon Park
The Nova Scotia government recently acquired two parcels of land at Shannon Park in Dartmouth for almost $17 million, but they have yet to determine how to utilize the space. Public Works Minister Fred Tilley stated that while the land is zoned for up to 600 units of housing, no concrete plans have been developed as of yet. The responsibility for developing the land will fall on other government departments, as Tilley’s department’s job was simply to make the purchase.
The Department of Growth and Development, which oversees housing initiatives, declined to provide any additional information regarding the future of the Shannon Park site. Canada Lands, the federal Crown corporation managing the sale of Shannon Park, sold the two parcels to the province in March for $16.8 million. The redevelopment plan for Shannon Park includes a minimum of 20% affordable housing, equivalent to around 600 units.
Following Tilley’s comments, opposition politicians suggested various approaches for the development of the land. Liberal MLA Iain Rankin proposed allocating the land to non-profit organizations, such as Adsum House, which has a successful track record of providing affordable housing. Trish McCourt of the Nova Scotia Non-Profit Housing Association also expressed hope that non-profits would play a role in the development of the site.
NDP Leader Claudia Chender emphasized the importance of acting swiftly to address the housing crisis in the Halifax Regional Municipality. She suggested exploring options like tiny homes, modular housing, public housing, and partnerships with non-profits. Canada Lands envisions a complete transformation of Shannon Park, including 3,000 residential units, a transit hub, and two large parks.
In conclusion, the future of Shannon Park remains uncertain as the Nova Scotia government deliberates on how best to maximize the potential of the newly acquired land. With a focus on affordable housing and community development, stakeholders are eager to see progress on this significant redevelopment project.
