Preserving History at the Digby Courthouse

A three-year project to renovate the historic courthouse in Digby is underway, with the awarding of a $190,000 contract to Carey Brothers Masonry of Avonport, Kings Co., for the exterior brickwork. Most of the brickwork will be done during July and August when court is in summer recess.

"The Digby courthouse is one of our provincial treasures," said Justice Minister Michael Baker. "It's vital that we preserve it, not only for its historic significance, but to ensure the proper administration of justice in southwestern Nova Scotia."

The province will spend about half a million dollars over the next three years to upgrade the brick exterior and repair the roof and windows. The renovations will repair damage caused by deterioration of the exterior facade and will reinforce the building's historic character.

The courthouse was originally built in 1909. The planned work brings to almost $1 million, the amount of government funding invested in preserving this important building.

The Department of Transportation and Public Works will co- ordinate construction with the court administrator and the judiciary to make sure cases can continue and that staff and the public can safely use the building.