FAQs
Why were these study areas chosen?
Three of the study areas, Sandy Lake, Morris Lake Expansion (Eastern Passage) and Highway 102 Corridor, were identified by the Regional Plan as Future Serviced Communities. This means they were identified as potential future locations for serviced development within the lifetime of the Regional Plan, which is set to expire in 2030. The fourth study area includes Akoma Holding's property, which was identified for development by the Road to Economic Prosperity for African Nova Scotian Communities due to its significance to the local community. This direction was supported by Regional Council.
What is a Special Planning Area?
The Province of Nova Scotia has created an Executive Panel on Housing to address housing challenges in the capital region. As part of this initiative, the Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing has designated fifteen (15) special planning areas in the Halifax Regional Municipality. To help accelerate an increase in the supply of housing, as outlined in the Housing in the Halifax Regional Municipality Act, the designation allows the Minister to make decisions on planning matters in those areas. Three of the study areas, Sandy Lake, Morris Lake Expansion (Eastern Passage), and Westphal have been designated as Special Planning Areas and will follow that process. View additional information regarding Special Planning Areas.
How will the studies be used?
The findings of the Future Serviced Communities Background Studies will be provided to decision makers (the Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing for the Special Planning Areas and HRM Regional Council for the other area) and they will determine if secondary planning for any of the areas should be initiated. Should secondary planning be initiated, the findings and recommendations of the studies will be used to help guide policy direction for the development of these areas.
How can I get involved?
Due to the technical nature of these studies, engagement is focused on property owners and local community groups involved in environmental research and African Nova Scotian affairs. Broad public engagement is not part of the scope of this project however, municipal staff are happy to answer any questions you may have by phone or email. Contact information is available under “Who’s Listening”. Should secondary planning be initiated for the study areas after the completion of the studies, robust public engagement will be conducted at that time.