Convention centre decision months away

TheNova Scotiagovernmenthas released four studies on whether Halifax needs a new convention centre, but a decision is still months away.

The NDP has been slow to backa planned developmenton Argyle Street a convention centre and hotel complex that could cost $300 million. Though supportersargue the centre is needed, critics say it's unnecessary and too expensive.

The four studies, released Friday, will help the government decide whether to invest taxpayers' money. One addresses current convention centre needs in the city, while the others deal with future business potential, the economic impact of a new centre, and howit would be financed and run.

"The reports are very favourable," said Scott Ferguson, head of Trade Centre Limited, which runs the World Trade and Convention Centre.

Two reports concludea larger convention centrewould attract more business to Halifax. However,there are no recommendations for the province to jump in right away.They suggest more talks with the developer, Rank Inc.

"It's positive information on the convention centre. That aside, I think it's good information that can engage the public," said Ferguson.

This go-slow approach satisfies Bill Estabrooks, minister of transportation and infrastructure renewal.

"I have to make sure that I'm comfortable enough with the information that when my colleagues ask me for that final recommendation I can completely justify it," Estabrooks said.

The studies are all from last year the most recent from December and the oldest from April. The province hasn't received any new information since then.

Rank Inc. has until July 19 to present a detailed proposal. After that, there will be two or three months of negotiations, said government officials.

Estabrookssaid hehas no hidden motive in making the reports public now.

"There's nothing behind this," he said. "I've been lobbied long and hard on this issue by both sides. I've been privy to information that I think the public should have, and that's why insisted let's get it out there."

Two sides

The Hotel Association of Nova Scotia supports the project, saying the city has lost 70 conferences over the years because the World Trade and Convention Centre is too small.

The Coalition to Save the View from Citadel Hill, however, claims that attendance has been falling at Canadian convention centres despite the addition of exhibit space.

Estabrooks said the province has applied forspecial funding forprivate-public partnerships like this one, but he's still waiting for an answer.

Thestudies and reports are expected to cost $300,000.