Shubie Park may get a summer cafe.
"Many users of the park have suggested that a coffee and treat would be a great addition to their daily walk in Shubie, so we are looking at the
potential of a summer operation there," said District 6 Coun. Darren Fisher. "Several people have inquired about renting the space in the
past, so we are hoping that those interested parties may come back and give it serious consideration."
In the past few years Shubie Park has seen many celebrations and parties, like the Christmas Tree Lighting and the Howl O' Ween Festival for
Pets.
The park was originally part of a larger estate called "Countryview" that had been established in 1722 as the King's wood lot. In 1783, the Countryview estate became the first royal land grant in Dartmouth, issued by King George III to naval mast maker Samuel Greenwood.
The 40-acre park, operated today by HRM contains trails and the Fairbanks Centre next to the canal. The Fairbanks Centre features a scale model of canal lock mechanisms and other displays.
With use of the park at an all time high, Fisher says a cafe is a very compelling possibility.
"But we at the very bare bones part of looking into the cafe. There are really more questions at this point than answers."
Fisher says it would have to be profitable for everyone involved.
Bernie Hart, executive director of Shubenacadie Canal Commission, attended a meeting this week about the possible cafe.
"It was generally agreed that it would be worthwhile to solicit interest from businesses as to the feasibility of operating an outdoor coffee shop in
association with the Fairbanks Centre."
Hart supports the opportunity for park users to sit in a pleasant area overlooking the forest and waterway.
"It would be will be a popular thing to do among park users."
The Fairbanks Centre has just upgraded its outdoor electric circuits, thanks to the Christmas Lighting project, and a small cafe could use the same setup, said Fisher.
"My speculation is that a cafe would be a good fit, but we will wait and see what the business owners who know about these things, have to say."
Fisher says it would not look at all like the painting of a Paris cafe by VanGogh.
"But maybe we could at least create a pleasant atmosphere and attract new people to the park."
Anyone wishing to contact Fisher about the cafe can do so at fisherda@halifax.ca
joanneoostveen@accesswave.ca
