News release

Highland Region Receives Recreation Funding

Health and Wellness

NOTE: A list of investments awarded in the Highland region follows this release.


The province is awarding $283,000 to help improve and upgrade recreation facilities in the Highland region.

Eleven grants were announced today, June 27, under the Recreation Facility Development Program.

MLA Clarrie MacKinnon made the announcement on behalf of Maureen MacDonald, Minister of Health and Wellness.

"Investing in our recreation facilities is just one way that we can help Nova Scotians lead healthier, more active lives," said Mr. MacKinnon. "We are providing $2.47-million for more than 70 projects across the province that will help families have fun, while getting fit."

Under the Recreation Facility Development Program, the grants will be used to renovate facilities, develop and maintain walking trails, and build and upgrade various fields and buildings used for sport and recreation.

The grants were announced at the YMCA at Big Cove Camp in Pictou County. This facility received $15,000 to winterize the interior of their Fourseasons Building.

"Summer camp is a place where magic happens; a place where children come home from stronger in mind, body and spirit, and often are inspired to new heights in their own endeavours," said Michael LeDuc, director of Big Cove Camp. "This funding will allow us to continue to provide this experience to youth in our region."

The program helps community groups, municipalities and other not-for-profit organizations develop facilities to increase public participation in sport and physical recreation.


Investments in the Highland region are:

  • Whitehaven Community Association: renovations to create community fitness, $30,000 over two years
  • Goshen Community and Recreation Centre Society: construct playground, $10,000
  • County Harbour Community Centre Society: construct new community centre, $40,00 over two years
  • Town of Pictou: outdoor tennis court facility, $30,000 over three years
  • Strait Regional School Board: replace Chedabucto Place playground, $25,000 over two years
  • YMCA of Greater Halifax - Big Cove: complete interior and winterize, $15,000
  • Lansdowne Outdoor Recreation Development Association: new events and recreation building, $8,000
  • Hector Arena Commission: refurbish arena roof and floor systems, $90,000 over three years
  • Paq'Tnekek First Nation: develop playground, $15,000 over two years
  • West Side Community Centre: tennis courts phase two, $20,000 over three years