History

Building on the value of the waterfront since 1976

The province of Nova Scotia has always recognized the value of its spectacular waterfront spaces. In 1976, the Waterfront Development Corporation took on the task to create experiences and opportunities and invest in infrastructure at the water’s edge. The Corporation began with a focus on the Halifax Harbour, but in July, 2018, Develop Nova Scotia was formed with a new pan-provincial mandate to develop strategic economic infrastructure to support inclusive economic growth in Nova Scotia. In December 2022, Nova Scotia Lands Inc., Develop Nova Scotia, and the Healthcare Infrastructure Renewal group combine to become Build Nova Scotia.This means that the legislation that governs this new Crown corporation is now in force, made official by a proclamation on order by the Governor in Council.

Build Nova Scotia oversees opportunities to transform our province’s lands and properties in ways that drive our economy forward and improve quality of life for all Nova Scotians. This includes managing the addition and renewal of infrastructure that keeps Nova Scotians healthy, connected, and thriving no matter where they live.

A thriving community is a powerful thing. And for our communities to reach their full potential, they need partnership, support, and platforms for growth. Build Nova Scotia believes that by working together, we can ensure the projects and places that matter most to Nova Scotians are brought to life in ways that improve our home and enrich our lives.

A brief history of the Halifax waterfront

The waterfront has always been the historical core of commercial and naval Halifax: a bustling working harbour in a growing city. The post-WWI downturn in traditional waterfront activity was followed by containerized shipping growth, which led to property deterioration as businesses moved elsewhere in the harbour. Over this same period, Halifax declined as a fishing port. In 1960, a Harbourfront Highway proposal was replaced by a community that was looking for a more progressive strategy for their waterfront. To view an in-depth look at the history of the Halifax waterfront, click here.

Waterfront Development is born

Three levels of government came together to develop a plan that would generate economic and social property on the waterfront. The committee became a Crown Corporation with the mandate to redevelop and revitalize the lands surrounding Halifax Harbour (and any other lands designated by its shareholder, the Province of Nova Scotia), and was named Waterfront Development Corporation. Since 1976, Waterfront Development has worked with partners on a number of key development projects, including Marriott Harbourfront and the award-winning Bishop’s Landing in Halifax. Today, Build Nova Scotia has a province-wide mandate with the same basic principles to capitalize on Nova Scotia’s wealth of waterfront assets, and ensure residents, visitors and entrepreneurs have access to the spaces in a well-planned and inclusive manner. See Projects.

News

The Pop Can: Small business pop-ups on the Halifax waterfront

Every week this 2023 season, there is going to be a new business activating “The Pop Can”. This space is a 20-foot shipping container is located in Sa…

Every week this 2023 season, there is going to be a new business activating “The Pop Can”. This space is a 20-foot shipping container is located in Salt Yard on the Halifax Waterfront.

Food & Beverage Business Opportunity on the Halifax Waterfront

Build Nova Scotia is seeking an operator for a food and beverage kiosk along the vibrant and active Halifax waterfront.

Build Nova Scotia is seeking an operator for a food and beverage kiosk along the vibrant and active Halifax waterfront.

Business Opportunity on the Halifax Waterfront

Build Nova Scotia is seeking a local business to operate the unique waterfront property at 1655 Lower Water Street.

Build Nova Scotia is seeking a local business to operate the unique waterfront property at 1655 Lower Water Street.

Weekly Pop-Up Business Opportunities in Salt Yard

Build Nova Scotia is seeking a bunch of local businesses for weekly pop-up opportunities on the Halifax waterfront.

Build Nova Scotia is seeking a bunch of local businesses for weekly pop-up opportunities on the Halifax waterfront.

Province Invests in Independent Pictou County High-Speed Internet Project

February 21, 2023—Pictou, NS: The Province has announced investment in support of the Municipality of Pictou County’s independent high-speed internet…

February 21, 2023—Pictou, NS: The Province has announced investment in support of the Municipality of Pictou County’s independent high-speed internet project on behalf of the Nova Scotia Internet Funding Trust. This invest…

One-Season Business Opportunity on the Halifax Waterfront

February 6, 2023 — Halifax, Nova Scotia: A fresh business opportunity on the Halifax waterfront. Build Nova Scotia is seeking multiple businesses to s…

February 6, 2023 — Halifax, Nova Scotia: A fresh business opportunity on the Halifax waterfront. Build Nova Scotia is seeking multiple businesses to showcase their products or services in pop-up chalet shops on the Halifax…

Premier Announces New Build Nova Scotia CEO

David Benoit will serve as the new President and Chief Executive Officer of Build Nova Scotia, one of two new Crown corporations established to drive…

David Benoit will serve as the new President and Chief Executive Officer of Build Nova Scotia, one of two new Crown corporations established to drive economic growth across the province.

Major Healthcare Expansion Includes More Services in More Locations

More beds, more operating rooms and two new and larger emergency departments are among the elements of More, Faster: The Action for Health Build, a co…

More beds, more operating rooms and two new and larger emergency departments are among the elements of More, Faster: The Action for Health Build, a comprehensive plan for improving healthcare services for Nova Scotians.

New Crown Corporations Launched to Drive Economic Growth

Today, December 1, the Province launched two new organizations that modernize the government's approach to economic development and improve accountabi…

Today, December 1, the Province launched two new organizations that modernize the government's approach to economic development and improve accountability to Nova Scotians.

Satellite Program Expands to Ensure Internet for Everyone

The Satellite Internet Service Rebate program is expanding once again to help more Nova Scotians get access to internet service faster.

The Satellite Internet Service Rebate program is expanding once again to help more Nova Scotians get access to internet service faster.