HRM asking homeless encampment to leave due to winter safety concerns

Halifax Regional Municipality says people sleeping rough at the green space on University Avenue will have to find other places to shelter come November.

The municipality released a statement on Tuesday, saying it is de-designating the University Avenue green space due to safety concerns related to upcoming winter snow-clearing operations in this area.

“During winter weather, snow is cleared from University Avenue with heavy equipment working in very close proximity to the University Avenue green space,” the statement said. “With the increase in people sleeping rough at this location, when snow clearing efforts begin, it will no longer be safe for people to shelter in this area.”

HRM said it is providing those sleeping in this area with notices to leave, adding they will have until Nov. 1 to relocate elsewhere.

“During this approximately five-week period, those currently sleeping rough at this location will also be offered resources and supports, including transportation of people and their belongings to provincially-funded indoor shelter and housing options, or to other municipal designated locations that are available,” HRM said.

The city said it will offer temporary storage of belongings.

People began setting up tents at the University Avenue green space earlier this year after the city asked unhoused people to leave Victoria Park and four other previously authorized encampments including in front of city hall.