PRESS RELEASE: Turret Arts Space redevelopment gains momentum
Halifax, NS – The Turret Arts Space is proud to announce another exciting step forward in the redevelopment of 1588 Barrington Street into a multiuse community arts space. The project has received support from the federal government to redesign the historic property formerly known as the Khyber Building.
“We’re thrilled that the Turret Arts Space is gaining momentum,” says Emily Davidson, Turret Arts Space Society president. “It’s wonderful to get traction after years of keeping the dream alive for a multipurpose arts space in downtown Halifax.”
The Government of Canada, through the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA), is providing $200,000 to help the Society finalize design and business plans for the Turret Arts Space. This also contributed to the successful release of a previously committed $225,000 from the Halifax Regional Municipality for hazardous materials abatement.
“Art plays a unique role in bringing people together to exchange ideas, see new perspectives, and celebrate communities’ diverse cultural heritage. Art also creates jobs and generates local economic growth,” says Andy Fillmore, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Innovation, Science and Industry and Member of Parliament for Halifax. “The Government of Canada is supporting Turret Art Space because it will provide an inclusive space for experimentation, creativity, and multidisciplinary cooperation in a historical building whose storied past is fundamental to Halifax’s vibrant art scene today.”
“I am excited to see this commitment from the Government of Canada to help restore this important and historic facility,” says Waye Mason, District 7 Councillor, Halifax Regional Municipality. “Artists in Halifax and across Canada will benefit from a renewed and accessible Turret Arts Space.”
The Turret Arts Space has assembled an expert team of architects, abatement specialists, contractors, consultants, and business planners to execute the scope of work covered in this first stage of redevelopment.
“Extensive hazardous materials abatement work is required in the Turret Arts Space to ensure the health and safety of our communities,” says Davidson. “We’re excited to take the first step towards delivering a safe, functional, and accessible building.”
