The mayor of Halifax is calling for a pause on the redevelopment of the Halifax Forum as the cost of construction goes through the roof.

The building has been a staple in the city for nearly 100 years, opening to public in 1927.

In a statement, Andy Fillmore says although the building has been a landmark where residents learned to skate, gather for community events and create memories, it is nearing the end of its practical life.

He has put forward a motion to defer the redevelopment to next year. It was passed by the Budget Committee with discussions on the building’s future set to continue during the 2026/27 municipal budget process.

“The Halifax Forum is part of our shared heritage,” says Mayor Fillmore. “But honouring our past also means making responsible choices for the future – especially when households are feeling the pinch of rising costs across the board.”

The project was originally approved in 2014, estimated at $38 million with a 2019 completion date – the project now carries a $126 million price tag with construction still not underway.

“Previous Councils made decisions based on the financial realities of the time,” continues Mayor Fillmore. “But the world has changed. Costs have risen. Families are stretched. We need to responsibly revisit big-ticket projects and make sure they still make sense today.”

Fillmore also proposes looking at alternative locations along the peninsula for a modern, accessible, two or three -pad ice facility at a lower cost.