News release

New Community Centre for North Preston

Service Nova Scotia and Municipal Relations (Oct. 2000 - March 2014)

SERVICE N.S./MUNICIPAL RELATIONS--New Community Centre for North Preston


Residents of North Preston will soon have a new community centre due to a $2,972,000 project funded through the Canada-Nova Scotia Infrastructure Program.

Joint federal-provincial funding of $1,981,332 was announced today, Nov. 13, by Premier John Hamm and Robert Thibault, federal Minister of Fisheries and Oceans, on behalf of Gerry Byrne, Minister of State for the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency. The Halifax Regional Municipality will fund the $990,668 balance upon formal acceptance of the agreement.

"By investing in stronger communities, we're building a stronger Nova Scotia," said Premier Hamm. "Today's announcement will help the people of North Preston benefit from a first-class community centre for many years to come."

The program invests in the infrastructure needs of Nova Scotia communities, including environmental enhancements.

"The government of Canada is committed to improving community infrastructure and improving our quality of life," said Mr. Thibault. "Through the Canada-Nova Scotia Infrastructure Program, we are investing in projects like the North Preston Community Centre to meet these goals."

The project involves the construction of a new multipurpose community centre in North Preston. The current building was closed in 2000 due to a fire and was subsequently deemed unsafe for public use. The new facility will house recreational programs and provide space for public services such as RCMP and health and social services. The new centre will serve up to 5,000 residents.

"A series of public meetings identified the need for a community centre as a top priority for North Preston residents," said Mayor Peter Kelly. "Through the Canada-Nova Scotia Infrastructure Program, I'm very pleased to announce that three levels of government have co-operated to meet the community's request."

This is one of a series of approval announcements for projects under the infrastructure program. To date, 76 projects have been announced, representing an investment of more than $119 million. Additional announcements are expected as projects undergo environmental assessment and final approval.

The $195 million, six-year Canada-Nova Scotia Infrastructure Program is administered by the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency and Service Nova Scotia and Municipal Relations. Enterprise Cape Breton Corporation is a member of the management committee. The Union of Nova Scotia Municipalities is represented on the program's management committee.