The company overseeing Cabot Links and Cliffs golf courses is making a fresh attempt at a proposed development involving a portion of West Mabou Beach Provincial Park, which is legally protected and previously off-limits for such projects. Natural Resources Minister Tory Rushton revealed that the Cape Breton company has presented new concepts to the province during a press briefing at Province House. Rushton emphasized the government’s willingness to engage in discussions with proponents offering economic benefits, job opportunities, and advantages for Nova Scotians.
This move contrasts with Rushton and Premier Tim Houston’s stance from two years ago. Back in 2023, when the company expressed interest in securing a Crown land lease to construct a third 18-hole golf course, Rushton advised against proceeding due to legal restrictions. Premier Houston’s office also confirmed at that time that there were no intentions to alter the park’s protected status.
Despite the current proposal, Rushton refrained from confirming any differences in the new plan compared to previous attempts. Cabot’s representative declined to comment on the matter. Meanwhile, Nadine Hunt, a staunch advocate for preserving the park’s protected status, expressed disappointment and concern over the potential challenge posed by Cabot.
Hunt criticized the company’s approach, accusing them of exploiting political situations to their advantage. She urged the government to reject any further discussions with Cabot. A study conducted in 2019 highlighted the park’s ecological significance, housing rare plants and animals, including endangered bird species protected under provincial law.
In a recent interview, Kyle MacQuarrie, the Progressive Conservative MLA for Inverness and Rushton’s assistant, mentioned engaging with constituents on both sides of the issue. MacQuarrie refrained from taking a firm stance, emphasizing the need for more specific details before forming an opinion. He disclosed discussions with former Nova Scotia premier Rodney MacDonald, who had been hired by Cabot in the past for lobbying efforts.
MacQuarrie expressed his readiness to listen to community opinions and gather feedback before making any decisions. Hunt criticized the government’s handling of the situation, raising concerns about the park’s safeguarded status. MacDonald did not provide any comments when approached for input on the matter.
