N.S. gov't protects 1,300 hectares of land amid criticism over its openness to development

Critics say protection is meaningless if development is permitted in the areas

Michael Gorman

CBC  - November 5, 2025 Originally published here

The Nova Scotia government announced about 1,300 hectares of new land for 16 parks and other protected areas on Wednesday at a time when it’s being criticized for contemplating development opportunities in those very places.

An aerial view of Blue Sea Beach in Cumberland County, one of the new provincial parks announced by the Nova Scotia government. (The Government of Nova Scotia)

“Nova Scotians and visitors love our provincial parks for their natural beauty and all the opportunities they offer to get out and explore the great outdoors,” Natural Resources Minister Kim Masland said in the news release. “These newly designated parks will continue to provide spaces for outdoor recreation and education, while also supporting their surrounding communities with jobs and other economic activity.”

The news comes as the government is facing criticism for recent comments by Masland that she’s open to conversations about development within any protected area.

One such potential development is a proposal by Cabot Cape Breton to build an 18-hole golf course in the boundaries of West Mabou Beach Provincial Park.

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