‘It’s an eyesore’: Residents slam delayed demolition of former motels near Canso Causeway
The Port Hastings rotary area in Cape Breton has been marred by the presence of two abandoned motels, the Causeway Inn and the Skye Lodge. Originally purchased by entrepreneur James Cha with plans to reopen in 2023, the buildings were later sold to Nova Scotia Public Works for demolition as part of the construction of a new roundabout.
However, the delay in demolishing the buildings has led to a host of issues for local residents and visitors. Residents have reported sightings of rats and vandalism around the Causeway Inn, with concerns about safety and cleanliness growing. The decrepit exterior of the inn has also become an eyesore for nearby businesses, affecting the overall appeal of the area.
Similarly, the Skye Lodge has been plagued by incidents of trespassing, vandalism, and small fires, prompting fears from the community’s fire chief of a potential major fire. With boarded-up windows and security measures proving ineffective, there is a growing sense of urgency for the buildings to be demolished to prevent further risks.
Public Works spokesperson Toby Koffman has indicated that the timeline for demolition will depend on the outcome of tenders, with the overall project expected to be completed by the end of 2028. However, the ongoing presence of the abandoned motels continues to be a source of frustration for residents like John Fraser, who view them as a blight on the community.
As efforts continue to address the issues surrounding the abandoned motels, residents and local officials are hopeful for a resolution that will improve the appearance and safety of the Port Hastings rotary area. the perspective of a travel blogger visiting a popular destination:
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