Halifax council orders feasibility study for $116M stadium grounds project

CBC

a day ago

The Halifax Regional Municipality council has ordered a financial feasibility assessment on the redevelopment of the Wanderers Block, a swath of downtown land that houses a pop-up soccer stadium and a horse riding school, among other facilities.
Councillors were presented Tuesday with three redevelopment options ranging in cost from $116 million to $122 million. The proposals include combinations of a permanent stadium, new equestrian facilities for the Halifax Lancers, and a botanical conservatory.
Several councillors raised concerns about whether the multimillion-dollar price tag could be justified, especially given ongoing budget pressures. The area, which is mostly municipal land and part of the Halifax Common, is also home to a historic lawn bowling club and city parks staff.
"Unless someone else is coming with cash, it's going to be really hard for us to do any of these wonderful, beautiful, city-building ideas," said Coun. Sam Austin, adding that tenants like the Halifax Wanderers and the Halifax Tides professional soccer teams are unlikely to contribute millions toward construction.
"In a tenant relationship, the city carries the risk," Austin continued. "If it doesn't work out, they can walk away — and we're the ones left holding the bag."
The three options presented were:
An 8,000-seat stadium for soccer and rugby, plus a second riding arena for the Lancers. Estimated cost: $116.2 million.
An 8,600-seat soccer-only stadium, additional space for the Lancers, and a conservatory. Estimated cost: $119.9 million.
A 7,100-seat stadium with a north-south orientation, two new riding arenas, and a larger conservatory. Estimated cost: $122.6 million.
Depending on the results of the feasibility assessment, council could revisit a fourth option presented Tuesday that would see a standalone stadium built in a different location.
Derek Martin, president of the HFX Wanderers FC, said Wednesday he is pleased the assessment will be going ahead.
"I'm looking forward to having real in-depth conversations very quickly. I spoke to city staff this morning, obviously after it was approved last night, and asked when we can meet to get started," he said in an interview, noting the team is willing to help the city and chip in. He did not say how much the team would be willing to contribute.
Halifax Tides CEO Courtney Sherlock said in a statement that the current soccer facilities at the Wanderers Grounds should last for "a few more years with minor improvements being needed annually," but that "it doesn't make sense to invest in upgrades and replacement parts on a temporary stadium."
Halifax stadium talks spark debate about use of public spaces
1 month ago
Talks about a stadium are alive again as Halifax regional council recently unveiled some options for the Wanderers Grounds. Once again, the topic is raising many questions. Richard Woodbury has the story.