Guiding Principles
The Halifax Port Authority launched the redevelopment of the Seaport in 2003. After hosting several open houses and gathering community input, guiding principles were created to lead the project. The redevelopment of the Seaport is committed to creating a sustainable and economically viable district for local residents, tourists and Nova Scotians.
People First
A 'people first' approach. The needs of all people using the Seaport site including residents, workers, students, visitors and others, must balance and guide all decisions. The Seaport must encourage pride of ownership by Nova Scotians.
Equity and Fairness
The principles of equity and fairness must factor into all decisions and actions. All parties with vested interest must feel heard and accommodated as reasonably as possible.
Inclusive Process
The vision for the Seaport is multi-dimensional and the interests of all stakeholders must be determined and aligned. The principles of fairness and openness must correspond, recognizing the interdependency of all people and issues.
Design Excellence
Encourage great architecture, high quality of building design and finishes, integrated site planning and efficient scale.
Sustainable Economic Growth
Focus must be on public and private sector investment that will create sustainable economic benefit, self-reliance, and will sustain the project over the long term, and that will promote highest and best use, efficiencies, adjacencies and synergies - a new critical mass approach.
Enable Investment
Enable development through an open business approach, capital/infrastructure subsidy, support infrastructure and the elimination of red-tape processes. These will be catalysts for private sector investment.
Smart Growth
Apply the accepted principles of Smart Growth that encompass integrated community development as advocated by governments and urban planners throughout Canada and worldwide. These principles enhanced the viability of the project by incorporating uses that not only encourage, but also sustain, future development.
Protect, Preserve and Enhance
Ensure the proper treatment of important heritage properties and the natural environment. Enhance sustainable development.
Pedestrian Ways and Places
Make the Seaport area a walking place - encourage great public spaces both passive and active. Ensure easy public access to the site.
A New Waterfront Destination
Create a place that people want to live near, work, play and visit during the days, evenings and weekends, year-round. Encourage businesses and services with extended opening hours and a 24-7 environment. Encourage family activities. Build on the strength of the Seaport's waterfront location.
