Nova Centre's final design approved

The finaldesign of Halifaxs new convention centre complex Nova Centre has been approved.

Developer Joe Ramia and his team addressed many topics for the city's design committee, everything from lights to trees, and even how the new mega-structure will impactwind patterns in downtown Halifax.

The committee gave the design unanimous approval with only minor changes at a meeting Thursday.

Ramia, head of Rank Inc., said it's good news.

"I feel very good that we've covered this step, that's the last step in this process. We're feeling very good about having a unanimous approval from the design review committee," he said.

The $500-millionNova Centre will be the home to a new $164-million convention centre, a luxury hotel, as well asbusiness and retail space.

Ground was broken on the site a year and a half ago and work continues on the building's foundation.

Earlier this week, city council approved the sale of part of GraftonStreet, which would result in the closure of part of the street.

Andy Fillmore is a member of the design committee.

"I think this is a great outcome. the dialogue and debate by the design review committee tonight has improved the project significantly, I think," he said.

Its still not clear when the above ground construction will begin.

But with the design process behind him, Ramia is confident he'll have his building permit in-hand before the end of this month.

"That is the last hurdle we have to really cross, so that's why we're very happy with what happened here tonight," said Ramia.

The Heritage Trust of Nova Scotia argues the design is too big for Halifaxs historic downtown and is pushing for a judicial review of thedevelopment.