The Halifax Port Authority and the Millbrook First Nation have entered into a memorandum of understanding that sets the stage for the infilling of Turtle Cove in Shannon Park.

The cove is a federal water lot of about two hectares.

The band already owns four hectares of land at Shannon Park in Dartmouth, which is being redeveloped by Canada Lands — the real estate arm of the federal government.

The two-year memorandum of understanding, signed Wednesday by the band and the Halifax Port Authority, gives the parties two years to negotiate a long-term lease for the infilled water lot.

"We are looking at the entire infilled cove," Chief Bob Gloade said.

The band has hired Clayton Developments to lead the project, which includes residential development on existing land and unspecified recreational and commercial development on the infilled area.

The infilling would extend land to navigable waters in Halifax Harbour.

Looking to double area

Gloade says the Halifax Port Authority is not allowed to lease its land for housing, which is why the infilled cove would be used for a mix of recreational and commercial use.

Gloade says Millbrook is also trying to acquire an additional two hectares from Canada Lands. The Canada Lands Board of directors is expected to decide on the request in June.

"We are looking to double our area at Shannon Park," Gloade said.

'Unlock the potential of this water lot'

The band, he says, will provide a more detailed explanation of its plans when it has secured additional land and water lot.

The memorandum of understanding was not released by deadline.

"We are working together to explore options that will unlock the potential of this water lot," Karen Oldfield, the president and CEO of the Halifax Port Authority, said in a news release.

"Our goal is to find a solution that will benefit the members of Millbrook First Nation and support community development."