News Release

HRM kicks off next stages in FIFA site bid, stadium planning

(February 8, 2011) - Regional Council this evening approved the next steps in positioning HRM to be a host city for the 2015 Women’s World Cup, the largest and highest level women’s soccer tournament.

With this evening’s vote, HRM will proceed with a $100,000 consultation and business planning analysis for a stadium, and form a council-appointed, citizen-led Project Steering Committee. The Mayor will sign a Letter of Intent to be sent to the Canadian Soccer Association.

“Council has thrown its support to this bid and to the serious consideration of a stadium,” said Mayor Peter Kelly. “We will do our best to determine what opportunities a stadium holds for our community and at what cost.”

A decision is expected in March on the host country. If successful, the Canadian Soccer Association will be seeking a minimum of six cities across the country to host the games. A host city is required to provide an outdoor venue with a minimum seating capacity of 20,000, which can include a mix of temporary and permanent seating.

With this evening’s approval, citizens, sport and recreation groups and potential partners will be consulted to inform a comprehensive business planning and financial feasibility analysis that is expected to be complete in June 2011

This marks the second significant Council vote on the FIFA bid and possible stadium. On December 7, Council voted to continue as a candidate city for the 2015 Women’s World Cup, expedite public input and explore private and public sources of funding. Events Nova Scotia paid the $25,000 bid deposit.

If a sustainable business model can be developed that meets with Council approval, Council will then determine if HRM moves on to Phase 2: site selection, building program, design and more detailed costing. Public engagement would be included throughout Phase 2.

Phase 3, the construction phase, would also only proceed if approved by Council.

“We are taking a stepwise approach that allows us to move forward and determine if this is the right time to add a stadium to add to the fine amenities of our region,” said Mayor Kelly.

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Contact:

Mayor Peter Kelly
490-4010