Demolition of Old Hospital Underway

The exterior demolition of the Old Halifax Infirmary begins today, Feb. 8 -- and the cafeteria is the first course.

An excavator, specially outfitted with mechanical shears, is being used to tear apart the cafeteria's concrete roof.

"Today we've reached a milestone in removing this building, which has obviously outlived its usefulness," said Transportation and Public Works Minister Ron Russell. "The province is continuing to work with its municipal partners to find the most beneficial solution for this important site."

The minister added that the province will work with the contractor to keep noise and dust levels to a minimum during the project.

Murray Demolition began the $4.1-million job of tearing down the building in January. The company continues to work inside other sections of the old hospital to remove hazardous materials.

The demolition of the Old Halifax Infirmary will be completed by December 2005.