SYDNEY, Nova Scotia — Membertou First Nation and Indigenous Services Canada announced the planned construction of a new gas bar (station) and a mass timber office building at the First Nation's planned Seventh Exchange retail district. 

“We're incredibly proud to announce a funding partnership with our federal partners for the development of Seventh Exchange, Membertou's new retail district," said Chief Terrance Paul, Chief & CEO, Membertou First Nation. "Thanks to this support, totaling $1.8 million, we will bring new opportunities to our people, and provide new services for the greater Cape Breton community.”

A 91,875-square-foot office space is being constructed out of mass timber as opposed to traditional concrete and steel. Mass timber is an umbrella category of materials made by binding layers of wood together to create larger, stronger elements like panels and beams. Proponents say it's faster and easier to work with than concrete and steel, and less carbon intensive. The new five-story building will provide affordable, greener office space for local organizations and businesses in the area.

Working in partnership with Membertou First Nation, over $1.8 million in funding was invested in these projects through Indigenous Services Canada’s Community Opportunity Readiness Program, which provides project-based funding for a range of activities to support communities’ pursuit of economic opportunities.

A phased-approach to development of the retail district began in the Summer 2021. In phase one, Membertou working with its partners to build several key anchor developments at Seventh Exchange, including a service station, food and beverage, sport and recreation retail, and commercial office space.

Phase-two of the development will include a focus on retail and with comprehensive and convenient shopping for the whole family.