Downtown businesses brace for convention centre mess

Some Halifax businesses near Argyle Street say they're concerned about their bottom lines if blasting starts at the site of the new convention centre next week.

If HRM approves the permit, blasting could start on Wednesday from 8 a.m. until dusk. Business received notice about the construction earlier this week.

Victor Syperek, owner of the Economy Shoe Shop directly across the street from the construction zone, said there are already parking restrictions in the area,

"We've already noticed the difference in our customer stream since construction started," he said

If the permit is approved there could be more traffic disruptions in the area.

Cal Johnston from Strange Adventures said he has lots of questions about how often and how long the downtown can expect to be disheveled.

"Certainly we can't do business if people can't get to our store, or park, or drive through," he said.

Biscuit General Store owner Wendy Friedman said she was surprised to learn the blasting could last for seven months, but said the developer has been cooperative so far.

"My attitude is let's see what happens. We'll take it as it comes, we'll try to work together."

The complex on Argyle Street is expected to open in January 2016.