Coast guard chooses Sydney harbour for icebreaker maintenance facility

The Canadian Coast Guard plans a maintenance facility in Sydney, N.S., to service two new icebreakers, with the expected site on Membertou First Nation land near the Coast Guard Academy. Geotechnical surveys are the next step to determine whether the harbour bottom and shore can support docks for two 160-metre ships.

The Canadian Coast Guard has announced plans to build a maintenance facility in Sydney, Nova Scotia, to service two new icebreakers that are under construction. The announcement was made by MP Mike Kelloway on behalf of Defence Minister David McGuinty at the Canadian Coast Guard Academy. Officials say the site is expected to be on land owned by Membertou First Nation in the Sydport industrial park, within sight of the academy. The coast guard said the location was chosen for its deep-water port, proximity to the Arctic, access to nearby training facilities and a partnership with Membertou. Key details: - The facility is intended to service two new icebreakers now being built and would include docks and maintenance buildings. - Officials expect the site to be located on Membertou First Nation property in the Sydport industrial park near the Coast Guard Academy. - The coast guard considered Halifax and Quebec City before selecting Sydney for its deep-water port and training access. - Geotechnical surveys are the immediate next step to confirm the harbour bottom and shore can support docks for two 160-metre ships. - The facility is expected to be built by the early 2030s, roughly when the icebreakers are due to launch. - Costs for construction and regular staffing remain to be determined, and discussions are underway about whether the land would be leased or sold. Summary: The planned facility is described by officials as a means to strengthen Arctic operations and to provide additional maintenance capacity in Atlantic Canada, which may also support other vessels and training. Talks with Membertou about land use are ongoing and geotechnical surveys are the next formal step; construction timing is aimed at the early 2030s and details on costs and staffing remain undetermined.