Infill on Halifax's Northwest Arm Doubles Despite Removal Order
Construction activity on the Northwest Arm in Halifax has reportedly doubled since July 2024, despite a municipal order to remove the infill. Property owner Andrew Metledge of Templeton Properties has applied for a permit for a waterfront dock, which is currently under review by the Halifax Regional Municipality (HRM). Neighbours criticize the perceived lack of enforcement, while officials state that the permit process must be completed to determine compliance with the 2024 infill bylaw.
In Halifax, Nova Scotia, the amount of infill on the Northwest Arm has approximately doubled since July 2024, even though the Halifax Regional Municipality (HRM) issued an order to remove it. The construction site, located next to Birchdale Avenue, is owned by Andrew Metledge, head of Templeton Properties.
The dispute began in March 2024 when about 10 metres of rock was initially dumped into the water. On June 22, HRM issued a notice to comply, requiring the removal of the infill and the application for a permit by July 22. However, instead of removing the material, several more metres of rock and stone wall have been added to the site since the initial dumping.
On July 14, a permit application for a waterfront dock and support structure was submitted. This application is currently under review by the municipality. Sarah Brannen, an HRM spokesperson, confirmed that both the investigation into the unauthorized work and the permit review are still underway.
Neighbour Allan Shaw has criticized HRM for what he describes as perceived inaction and mixed messages regarding the infilling. He argues for strict enforcement of the removal order. In contrast, Coun. Laura White stated that the building permit process is necessary to determine if the work fits within the bylaw before final compliance or enforcement actions can be decided.
The infill bylaw, which became effective in 2024, limits infilling to specific categories such as public or utility infrastructure, parks, ferry terminals, historic sites, and retaining walls. The ongoing situation highlights the conflict between neighbours who helped create the bylaw and the administrative processes required to assess current developments.