News release

Province Helps Fund Sydney Harbour Dredging Preconstruction

Transportation and Infrastructure Renewal (Oct. 2007 - Feb. 2021)

The Department of Transportation and Infrastructure Renewal will contribute up to $2 million to help offset costs associated with an environmental assessment, related planning, engineering and technical design requirements for the proposed Sydney Harbour dredging project.

Premier Rodney MacDonald and Cecil Clarke, Minister of Justice, made the announcement today, Feb. 18, in Sydney.

"Limited water depth in the main channel of Sydney Harbour has long been recognized as an impediment to the development of the port's full potential," said Premier MacDonald. "Port-related development will be a key ingredient to Cape Breton's long-term economic growth and sustainability."

The premier identified the dredging of Sydney Harbour as one of several key infrastructure projects required to help transform Nova Scotia into the Atlantic Gateway of North America in a March 5, 2008 speech to the Nova Scotia Chambers of Commerce.

"We're happy to help in moving this important project forward," said Cecil Clarke, Minister of Justice, on behalf of Angus MacIsaac, Minister responsible for the Gateway Initiative. "Sydney Harbour is a key component of the Atlantic Gateway, and this funding brings us a step closer to being able to capitalize on its full potential."

"These funds, which will be held in trust and administered by Enterprise Cape Breton Corporation, are critical for the necessary preconstruction planning, related work and environmental permits required to position the harbour to compete for, and secure, marine-related business," said John Lynn, chief executive officer of Enterprise Cape Breton Corporation.

Nova Scotia's potential as an international gateway includes exponential growth in container traffic, and significant growth opportunities in international air passenger and cargo traffic handling, and the cruise ship industry.