With M.P. Bratina- on the Discovery Centre and its Lands

M.P. Bob Bratina

Enjoy our chat with Member of Parliament, and former Mayor of Hamilton Bob Bratina, on the topic  of the Discovery Centre.

1. M.P. Bratina, What are your views concerning the status of the Discovery Centre and its land and their treatment to date?

The Discovery Centre was an ambitious project with great potential but ultimately neglected and allowed to fail by the previous federal government. It was subsequently mishandled by the Waterfront Trust, an organization lacking the resources or competence to undertake a successful project for the site.

2.Why are these lands and the Centre important to the future of Hamilton? Should these lands be protected in the public realm?

These lands and their original intended use were part of a vision to help reset the image of Hamilton by attacking one of our iconic negative symbols...the bay and its water. The Centre and the waterfront trail were a partnership between the City and the federal government to open the harbour to the people of Hamilton, and not as a precursor to residential development.

3.How does the progress made on the Randle Reef tie into the Discovery Centre and the lands on which it rests?

When the Randle Reef project is completed there should be a major celebration of the removal of one of North America's environmental toxic hot-spots. Its story can and should be told in an interpretive centre that just so happens to be in place, ready to adapt to .a new and special role for all residents, and indeed visitors from everywhere to enjoy, complete with a delightful open air restaurant patio. And without the need for late-night dance parties.

4. What advice might you have to Hamilton’s municipal government with respect to this matter.

Consult with all stakeholders, including all relevant elected officials in an open and transparent process that is not at the moment apparent. 

5. Is there anything else you’d like our readers to know concerning these lands or any other matter you have been working on in the best interests of Hamilton?

During my time as mayor I was subject to a somewhat informal but nevertheless focused lobby to explore residential development on the site. As mayor I could assure the public that the future of those lands would be a matter of broad public discussion. I can't under current circumstances provide that same assurance.

Thanks to M.P. Bratina for engaging with Hamiltonians via The Hamiltonian