Thursday, November 8, 2018
A message from Develop Nova Scotia:
We wanted to provide you with an update on the divestiture process for Liscombe Lodge Resort and Conference Centre.
In 2016, the province engaged Waterfront Development (now Develop Nova Scotia) to manage the process to divest of Digby Pines and Liscombe Lodge. A Request for Proposals (RFP) was issued in August 2016 for each property.
Although extensive and constructive negotiations took place for both Digby Pines and more recently Liscombe Lodge, agreements were not reached through this process. The province will continue to own, operate and maintain the properties until agreements are reached with suitable buyers. New Castle Hotels and Resorts will continue to operate both resorts on behalf of the Province.
Given the time elapsed since the original RFP, and improving market conditions, the decision was made this summer to cancel and move to procure a real estate brokerage to assist in an expedited, competitive process to achieve a sale. A qualified brokerage was hired through an RFP process and is currently in market to actively seek prospective buyers for Digby Pines. This approach allows us the flexibility to take advantage of potential new interest in the market and a growing tourism sector, in a more flexible, less onerous process.
To support the divestiture process for Liscombe Lodge, we have made the decision to cancel the original RFP and engage a real estate brokerage to assist in achieving a sale. The brokerage, which will be selected through an RFP in market this week, will support the process to find qualified buyers and assist in negotiating offers to purchase.
Our objective remains to achieve sales that provide good value for the taxpayers and the community; and that the new plans for the property have a strong likelihood of success, continuing to contribute to, and support growth in, the local economy. Liscombe Lodge and Digby Pines are important employers, destinations and contributors in their respective communities. We are committed to achieving these divestitures to support the inclusive economic growth goal of the province.
Jennifer Angel, President & CEO
Develop Nova Scotia
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