HRM by Design is process to remodel Halifax’s downtown in a way that will attract and hold more business and more residents while also preserving our valued heritage.
This future is also outlined in HRM’s Regional Plan and targeted by its Economic Strategy.
Downtown Halifax is the economic, social and cultural heart of the region. During this time of economic uncertainty, a plan for increasing the economic viability of the region is essential for future growth. HRMbyDesign will help bring more people to live and work in the downtown, providing the type of investment and care that is desperately needed downtown.
HRMbyDesign’s plan for downtown Halifax will also create clarity and predictability in the development approval process so that quality development can occur more efficiently and with fewer appeals. This plan, which has been in the works for the past year and a half, reflects the vision and principles supported by members of the public that have been involved in the project’s extensive public consultation process.
The plan will increase the quality of architecture and design of public spaces and encourages strategic municipal investment for heritage protection, public amenities and infrastructure.
Partnership’s Role
As an advocate for change and a believer in the potential for the downtown to drive economic growth, the Partnership is also the economic development group responsible for growing our municipality. Most importantly, it will ensure that HRM by Design proposes not only an exciting vision, but also one that makes economic sense.
The Partnership has been involved in HRMbyDesign through such activities as:
- Playing a leadership role in the development of HRM’s Regional Plan and Economic Strategy;
- Bringing Larry Beasley, a former planner with the City of Vancouver and world leader in urban planning, to Halifax to build awareness around the HRMbyDesign process;
- Engaging our Investors, the development community, the broader business community and municipal staff on this vital issue;
- Ensuring the business community was fully represented during public consultations on HRM by Design; and,
- Creating an initial office space study to understand future office space needs in the Central Business District in the context of HRMbyDesign.
- The creation of a mini advertising campaign in print, web and radio to support HRMbyDesign. The campaign has appeared in The Chronicle Herald, the Halifax edition of Metro and on CHUM radio stations.
Partnership’s Submission to the Provincial Law Amendments Committee
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