If you live in New Brunswick, you know the northern region needs economic development. A proposed explosives factory is generating a mix of economic optimism and environmental questions among local leaders. The company Nalagx recently received an offer for a 1500 acre parcel of Crown land near Belledune and Heron Bay as a potential lease area. According to a recent report by CBC News, the project remains in the early stages.

Economic Hopes Meet Tax Base Realities

Local municipalities need the economic boost. Belledune faces a $1 million loss in its tax base next year due to the reevaluation of its thermal power plant. This blow follows the previous loss of the local smelter plant. Belledune Mayor Mario LaPointe notes the municipality experiences the impact of these financial losses.

However, the proposed land sits outside Belledune’s municipal boundaries in the Restigouche Rural District. This location means the factory will not directly add to the Belledune tax base. LaPointe wants a public consultation process to gauge resident feelings. He also has questions about the chemicals involved in munitions manufacturing and how the company plans to transport them through the community.

“We’re just waiting for more information from the company, more information from the province, from Premier Holt’s office and what their intentions are,” LaPointe said.

Provincial Stance on the Project

Premier Susan Holt stresses the province has not finalized any plans. She states the project has not progressed beyond initial conversations. “We haven’t handed over 1500 acres of government land,” Holt said, adding that discussions with First Nations and northern communities are ongoing. The province must still evaluate the community, economic, and environmental impacts.

However, a July 30 letter from Natural Resources Minister John Herron indicates the province identified the land to support the project and will hold it in reserve for up to two years for Nalagx.

Neighboring Communities Weigh the Impacts

Heron Bay Mayor Gail Fearon views the outside interest positively. “When you get a company that comes from away that wants to come here and set up shop, it’s good news,” she said. Fearon acknowledges the need for thorough environmental studies, especially given the nature of the explosives industry and its proximity to populated areas.

Barry Firlotte, a director for the Restigouche Rural District, agrees the project offers a strong economic prospect for an area with an aging population. He points out the site currently lacks infrastructure and will require new roads. Firlotte hopes to learn more about the factory’s potential impact on the local water table.

“Everything being so dry now, it’s not like what it used to be,” he said.

Frequently Asked Questions

What company is proposing the explosives factory?

A company named Nalagx is proposing the facility.

Where will the factory be located?

The province offered a 1500 acre parcel of Crown land in the Restigouche Rural District, near Belledune and Heron Bay.

Is the project officially approved?

No. Premier Susan Holt confirmed the province has not approved the project and is still evaluating environmental and economic impacts.

Will the factory lower taxes in Belledune?

No. The proposed site sits outside Belledune’s municipal boundaries, meaning it will not contribute to the town’s tax base.