Public Consultation Key to Convention Centre Project

Hearing from the public on the design of the proposed convention centre is a key component of the development process of the new centre.

Developer Rank Inc. was required to submit a comprehensive public consultation plan that will allow Nova Scotians to be part of the design process as part the project submission.

"Nova Scotians should have input into the design of the proposed centre," said Transportation and Infrastructure Renewal Minister Bill Estabrooks. "This has been an open and transparent process and because the request for proposal requires the developer to have public consultations on the design once the project begins, this transparency will continue."

Consultation plans for the convention centre design include a website, online forum, open houses, presentations, world cafes, feedback sessions and a toll-free number for people to participate. During the construction phase, Rank Inc. will make sure people who work and live in the area are kept up to date on construction activities through regular advisories and a project newsletter.

Rank Inc. will use tools such as radio, social media and print media to keep interested parties informed. Rank Inc. will provide advance notice about construction to neighboring properties and businesses using direct mail and track all public inquiries to ensure they are responded to in a timely manner.

The website www.conventioncentreinfo.com was established earlier this year by Trade Centre Ltd. to provide public access and feedback opportunities to reports and analysis on a new convention centre for Nova Scotia. Open houses and presentations have also be held to provide information on the project.

A comprehensive business case shows that the new centre will create thousands of jobs and grow the provincial economy.

"The public must continue to have input into the new convention centre as an asset that will benefit the entire province," said Mr. Estabrooks. "We need the thoughts of all Nova Scotians on how this iconic building can best reflect the charm and vitality of Nova Scotia."

On Oct. 13, the province announced provincial support for the project and plans to seek HRM and federal funding, which is required for the project to move forward.