The company managing the Cabot Links and Cliffs golf courses is making a third attempt at a potential development that would involve a section of West Mabou Beach Provincial Park, an area protected by law and previously considered off-limits for such projects. Natural Resources Minister Tory Rushton disclosed that the Cape Breton organization’s representatives have presented some concepts to the province. Rushton emphasized the government’s willingness to engage in discussions with proponents offering economic benefits, job opportunities, and advantages for Nova Scotians.
Back in 2023, when informed about the company’s interest in acquiring a Crown land lease for constructing a third 18-hole golf course, Rushton advised against pursuing the venture due to the lack of provisions in the Provincial Parks Act permitting golf course development within a park. Premier Tim Houston’s office also clarified at that time that there were no intentions to alter the park’s protected status.
Despite the previous setbacks, the current proposal’s specifics remain uncertain, as Rushton could not confirm any distinctions from past initiatives. Cabot’s spokesperson did not provide a comment on the matter. Nadine Hunt, a staunch advocate for preserving the park’s protected designation, expressed disappointment and concern over the potential challenge posed by Cabot.
Hunt criticized Cabot for opportunistically pursuing openings in regulations and urged the government to show no leniency towards the company. A study conducted in 2019 highlighted the park’s ecological significance, housing rare plant and animal species, including birds protected under provincial laws. Progressive Conservative MLA Kyle MacQuarrie, Rushton’s assistant, acknowledged the diverse opinions among constituents on the issue but emphasized the need for specific details to facilitate meaningful discussions.
MacQuarrie disclosed that while he had conversations with former Premier Rodney MacDonald, hired by Cabot for lobbying efforts, they primarily discussed general ideas without delving into specifics. MacQuarrie emphasized his intention to gather feedback from constituents to determine their preferences regarding the park’s protection status. Despite the concerns raised by Hunt and others, the future of West Mabou Beach Provincial Park remains uncertain, prompting further deliberations and community engagement.
