The Governments of Canada and Nova Scotia are investing a total of $22 million in a multi-purpose centre in Pictou County to serve the area’s health, business and educational needs.
The announcement was made today by the Honourable Peter MacKay, Minister of National Defence and Minister for the Atlantic Gateway, and Pat Dunn, Nova Scotia Minister of Health Promotion and Protection.
“The Government of Canada is investing $12 million in this project,” said Minister MacKay. “This project will have a significant economic impact on Pictou County putting people to work and supporting an active and healthy lifestyle.” The Province of Nova Scotia is investing $10 million from its Building Facilities and Infrastructure Together program.
“Our investment demonstrates our province’s commitment to help more Nova Scotians live healthier and more active lives,” said Minister Dunn. “It’s also a part of our Building for Growth strategy to help stimulate the economy.”
“The construction of the Wellness Centre is a significant step forward in improving the lives of the people of Pictou County,” said Ron Baillie, Warden of the Municipality of Pictou County. “It will mean a place for our children to have fun, our young people to grow, and our adults to stay physically active. It will also mean jobs, both during and after its construction – jobs that are invaluable to our region during these challenging economic times.”
“We know the Pictou County Wellness Centre will go a long way in helping individuals and families grow healthy and strong in spirit, mind and body,” said Vivek Sood, on behalf of the board of directors of the Pictou County YMCA. “The centre will give the people of Pictou County the services and support they need to better enrich their lives.”
The wellness centre will be a regional facility with health and wellness as its major focus. Key features of the centre will include a fitness centre, aquatic centre, gymnasium, fitness studios, community rooms as well as a double-rink sports stadium.
The $36 million project will include contributions from six local municipalities and community groups. The facility will be owned by the municipalities of New Glasgow, Pictou, Stellarton, Westville, Trenton and Municipality of the County of Pictou and managed by the Pictou County YMCA.
The federal and provincial governments are contributing $22 million to build a community wellness centre in Pictou County. Key features of the centre will include a fitness centre, aquatic centre, gymnasium, fitness studios, community rooms as well as a double-rink sports stadium. The announcement was made by National Defence Minister Peter MacKay and Nova Scotia’s Minister of Health Promotion and Protection, Pat Dunn.
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David Harrigan
Senior Communications Officer
ACOA Nova Scotia
902-426-4238
David.harrigan@acoa-apeca.gc.ca
Rachel Boomer
Communications Office
Nova Scotia Office of Health Protection and Promotion
902-424-5323
Rachel.boomer@gov.ns.ca
