Where the Nova Center is sitting would have made for a fantastic green space or perhaps something like Sparks Street in Ottawa but instead it's giant monument to the insecurities of a city that craves the 'world class' label that only sub-par cities utilize. That entire project is a badge for the utter lack of common sense exhibited by those in charge of city planning in HRM.  A business-destroying convention centre that nobody needed or wanted, endless new condominiums that nobody will be buying and a city infrastructure that has been screaming for overhaul and investment for decades.  Halifax is intent on destroying its own charm.  

I gather too that the Nova Centre was supposed to pay an inconvenience fee to the affected business on Argyle and Prince Streets but the HRM simply pocketed the money.