The warden of the Municipality of the District of Guysborough says he’s optimistic a proposed spaceport near Canso will move forward.
Representatives with Maritime Launch Services Ltd., the developers of the country’s first commercial spaceport, submitted their proposal for environmental assessment in July.
Government experts raised environmental concerns in documents that highlighted numerous questions regarding the project, which were released in August; Margaret Miller, the province’s environment minister has said she needs more time to review the proposal.
After September’s regular municipal council meeting Wednesday, Vernon Pitts, the warden of Guysborough, said it’s a good sign the company’s CEO has re-located for the project.
“Mr. (Steve) Matier has moved into the province, he’s moved into the province for a reason, he’s moved himself and his family,” he said. “He’s not living within the municipality, but he’s within the province- I firmly believe that project is going to take place.”
Construction was expected to start by the end of 2018, with the first rocket expected to launch in 2021.
Pitts said he remains optimistic the project will go ahead.
“The launch site is no different than any other project that is proposed for the Province of Nova Scotia, nor the Municipality of the District of Guysborough,” he said. “There (are) permits required, and any proponents that come forward have to acquire these permits before they can move forward.”
Pitts said he believes all of the necessary permits will be issued, and the project will get off the ground.
He said municipal officials are ready to do their part, and help keep the project moving forward if need be.
Photo credit: Strum Consulting