The mayor of Port aux Basques is calling it a “great day” for the town.

Marine Atlantic has received final federal government approval for a new and long-awaited administration building in Port aux Basques.

Site preparation at the Hardy’s Arterial Road site is expected in the coming weeks with the new building set to open sometime in the 2023-2024 fiscal year.

Mayor John Spencer says the new building, which has been in the works since 2017, will help solve some serious space issues for Marine Atlantic staff in the town.

Marine Atlantic currently has one small administrative building and staff are scattered about the town in a variety of rented spaces. He says the new building will be located near the town’s Rec Centre, schools and daycare centre and will serve as a hub for the entire region.

That, coupled with word that ferry rates will not be increased as originally announced, is good news indeed says Spencer.