Plans For New Correctional/Forensic Facilities

The Departments of Health and Justice are moving ahead with plans to construct new forensic and correctional facilities in the Halifax Regional Municipality.

The facilities will be built in a 40 hectare area between Marsh Lake and the Department of National Defence's rifle range off Highway 102.

The province is now waiting for proposals from short-listed companies that responded to an expression of interest issued in February, 1998.

A selection committee identified the Marsh Lake site as the best location for the new facilities. Two open houses were held in September to consult with the public about the preferred site.

"We gathered a great deal of feedback and most of what we heard was positive," said Diana MacKinnon, project manager, Department of Justice. "There were questions and we have taken them back to our planning committee for review."

Some people had questions about safety, property values, and the location of an access road to the property. It was emphasized at the open houses that security is paramount, and that careful planning and preparations will ensure security for the community, as well as for patients, inmates, staff and visitors.

Area residents also had questions about the future of the 325 hectares surrounding the facilities. The province is still committed to preserving the land for recreational purposes, and a consultation process will continue with surrounding communities, along with the Halifax Regional Municipality, concerning the use of the area.

As a result of the open houses, one or more community groups will be established to work with the Departments of Health and Justice as the facilities are designed, built and opened. It is hoped this initiative will provide opportunities for the development of partnerships and regular communication between the facilities and the various communities in the area.