Should the Glace Bay Fishing Harbour Get a New Wharf?

Official title: Marginal Wharf Construction at Glace Bay Small Craft Harbour, Nova Scotia

Closed Environmental Assessment Economy & Jobs Natural Resources
Fisheries and Oceans Canada wants to replace 11 crumbling wharves at Glace Bay harbour with one modern 174-metre wharf. The current structures are so deteriorated they've been barricaded. This is Nova Scotia's largest core fishing harbour, serving the lobster fleet year-round.

Why This Matters

Work in the Glace Bay fishing industry? This harbour is your lifeline. The current wharves are falling apart—literally barricaded because they're unsafe. Without this rebuild, the harbour's future is uncertain. Local businesses that depend on the fishing economy should pay attention too.

What Could Change

If approved, construction would start in fall 2025 and wrap up by March 2027. All 11 existing wharves would be demolished, along with four private buildings. The new wharf would have steel foundations, concrete caps, and modern electrical systems. Four private property owners would need to relocate their buildings.

Key Issues

  • Should the federal government approve demolition of 11 wharves and 4 buildings for this project?
  • What environmental impacts might occur during 18 months of heavy construction in the harbour?
  • How will construction be coordinated to minimize disruption to fishing activities?

Indigenous Consultation

This consultation requires engagement with Indigenous communities under the Crown's duty to consult.