Hamilton councillor has plans to develop Pier 8

A Hamilton city councillor wants to get the ball rolling on developing Pier 8.

Councillor Chad Collins said council should start thinking about creating a solid vision for the area.

"There is a lot of positive buzz around the waterfront," he said. "We should capitalize on that buzz."

Collins wants council to seek guidance from municipalities that have already developed their waterfronts.

"With all the recent developments in place with the city, the port authority and community groups, now is the time to start developments for Pier 8," he said.

Council passed a motion this week to include a citizens' group plan for West Harbour in the city’s existing study on the waterfront.

Collins would like to see Pier 8 become a mixed-use space, with residences and businesses. He cites Halifax as an example to follow.

"There is residential, commercial and open public space," he said. "And it’s walkable and pedestrian friendly."

Collins said he expects to put his motion on the table at the Sept. 12 council meeting.