Halifax issues demolition permit for remaining Bloomfield buildings

The Bloomfield property in north-end Halifax is set to undergo a major transformation as the developer who owns the site plans to demolish the existing buildings and clear the lot for future development. A demolition plan prepared last month outlines the timeline for tearing down the remaining structures, with the city issuing a permit on March 11 to proceed with the demolition process.

The demolition plan specifies that the buildings will be torn down between April 1 and July 1, despite the permit being valid until September 5. This decision comes in the aftermath of a fire that destroyed one of the site’s three buildings, known as the Fielding building, in February. The Fielding building was demolished after the fire due to safety concerns, with the cause of the fire still under investigation by Halifax Regional Fire and Emergency.

The property owner, Banc Investments, has not provided any comments regarding the demolition plans. However, the councillor for the area, Virginia Hinch, expressed her satisfaction with the developer’s commitment to removing the structures. She also mentioned the possibility of the city eventually buying back the property, as per the conditions set when it was sold to Banc in 2021.

The Bloomfield site, which used to house a school that closed in 1988, has been in a state of decline for years. Banc had previously faced challenges in securing construction financing, resulting in delays in redevelopment plans. The property has also been the subject of municipal orders to address safety hazards and unsightly conditions, such as graffiti, broken windows, and missing fencing.

Despite these setbacks, Banc plans to build housing on the site, with a portion of the units designated as affordable. However, Hinch expressed concerns about the affordability of the housing, stating that it does not align with the needs of the community. She hopes to see more affordable units and additional amenities included in the development plans.

As the demolition of the Bloomfield property progresses, residents and local officials are hopeful that the site will be revitalized to benefit the community. With the demolition permit in place and plans for future development underway, the transformation of this historic site is set to bring new opportunities and growth to north-end Halifax.