Some residents in Big Pond are protesting against a proposed new fire hall for their community. The old hall burned down more than a month ago and now there are plans to build a new fire station and community centre where the former Big Pond School stands. Not everyone is welcoming the change.

Volunteer firefighter Ron McCarron says the fire hall is the heart of the community, so it should be placed where the school used to stand. The hall plays host to a regular dart league and tarbish game, as well as wedding receptions and the occasional square dance. The fire department wants to build the hall next to the church and across the road from a restaurant and popular swimming spot.

"There's no other land in Big Pond," he said. "Even though there are some obstacles to overcome, we don't see it as a big deal, we're going to build there."

McCarron says the old site created traffic concerns and there were problems with the septic system. But neighbours of the proposed site say the problems will be worse in the new location. Bev MacPherson's property is next to the old school and she's worried about losing her peace and quiet, and says there is more to consider.

"There's some concerns about safety," MacPherson said. "I don't know if anybody has given any thought to that, but you're going to have a lot traffic coming and going, and it doesn't make sense."

MacPherson also says the septic system the fire department expects to use was designed for 100 people using a restaurant, not 300 people drinking and partying. She says more planning should be done before a decision is made. The fire department expects to know if they can lease the land by the end of the week.