Cumberland-Colchester MP Alana Hirtle has introduced a motion in the House of Commons calling for a study on innovative ways to repurpose underused and surplus federal properties to support veterans’ services.

Amherst Armoury Highlights Need for Streamlined Processes

Hirtle emphasized the potential nationwide impact, noting, “I think we could probably find at least one surplus federal building in every riding across the country.” She highlighted the lack of a uniform method for transferring such properties quickly to other entities for productive use.

The Colonel James Layton Ralston Armoury in Amherst, N.S., a historic sandstone building constructed in 1915, served the Nova Scotia Highlanders until 2015, when the reserve unit relocated to Pictou. Declared surplus by the federal government in 2016, the site continued to host local cadet groups and a regimental museum.

In 2024, plans emerged to convert the armoury into housing after federal officials moved to divest the property. However, progress halted when the Department of National Defence abruptly closed the building last summer due to health and safety issues related to mould.

“The building that bears Colonel Ralston’s name, the building where those Highlanders gathered and trained and kept their legacy alive, deserves better than the red tape of administrative limbo,” Hirtle stated during House proceedings.

Veterans’ Group Proposes Comprehensive Redevelopment

Veterans Emergency Services Canada (VETS Canada), a Halifax-based national non-profit, has outlined a plan to renovate the armoury into 24 housing units for veterans, a modernized museum, and areas for social enterprises. “Maybe a coffee shop or a cafe that some of the veterans living in the building could work at if they want to be employed,” suggested co-founder Debbie Lowther.

The project carries an estimated $20 million price tag. VETS Canada, which runs drop-in centres in Dartmouth, Edmonton, and Ottawa, seeks government funding and private donations. Co-founder Jim Lowther expressed concerns: “We’re kind of a little bit stalled,” with ongoing discussions with federal officials. He added worries about a potential developer demolishing the site for modular housing.

Local Support Amid Delays

Amherst Mayor Rob Small affirmed the town’s strong backing for the initiative. The council allocated $50,000 for a feasibility study, though commissioning remains pending. “The last couple of years, since the notion of the redevelopment happened, not much has happened, quite frankly,” Small observed.

Hirtle indicated her proposed national study aims to accelerate solutions without delaying the Amherst project.

Calls for Immediate Action

Independent MLA for Cumberland North, Elizabeth Smith-McCrossin, opposes additional studies. “Veterans deserve better. They deserve support. They deserve action, not more studies,” she asserted. She pointed to years of building deterioration and community efforts, including a petition with about 400 signatures to prevent closure.