New Minister of Natural Resources Kim Maisland confirmed the province is looking over a proposal for a golf course in West Mabou Beach.
She says they are having conversations with Cabot about their new proposal, which is the second one they’ve made since 2023 when the province originally shut the idea down.
According to her, the government needs to stop saying no before even having a conversation.
“Because you have a conversation, it doesn’t mean it’s going to happen or it’s not going to happen. It’s a conversation. I’m sure you have conversations at your supper table all the time. It does not necessarily happen,” defended Masland.
She mentions how seasonal businesses along the coast are economic drivers, a place for students to have summer work, and a destination for people all over the world to come.
“We’re open for business in Nova Scotia and we need to look at ways that we can make sure that we are still being an economic driver in the province, but yet balance protection,” says Masland. “I truly believe that we can have economic benefit, and we can still protect the beautiful parts of this province.”
Premier stands his ground on golf course at West Mabou Beach
Meanwhile, the premier echoes Masland’s comments, defending the idea.
Tim Houston made the comment Thursday afternoon amid controversary surrounding the possible development.
He explained how there are golf courses in parks across the country.
“The concept of a golf course in a park is not unique at all. You don’t have to go very far from West Mabou to find an actual golf course in a park,” stated Houston. “I wouldn’t accept the argument that this is some kind of crazy idea that’s never happened.”
Houston remains firm in the province’s latest stance when he tells reporters that they are staying open minded.
He says there are certain locations that are suitable for world-class golf courses, and the province will listen to ideas, regardless of the community members and MLAs opposing the development on protected land.
The opposition is against the proposed location
In the meantime, the leader of the NDP Claudia Chender says what we are seeing is a successful lobbying campaign from a private developer.
“This government’s track record on protected areas is poor, their track record on consulting with community is poor, and their track record of doing favors for corporate interests that have deep pockets is excellent,” she says.
According to her, there are lots of opportunities in other spaces nearby.
