Long Wharf: the right design

I went to the Irving Oil information session regarding their proposed headquarters to be built on Long Wharf. I think the design is pretty good.

I've read critics complaining that the site won't include residential or retail development. Others have complained that the design isn't tall enough.

I think a new high-rise would be a cool addition to the uptown, but the proposed Irving Oil HQ as designed will also add much to the waterfront. Height is considered a status symbol to some. To me, if Irving (or someone else) went up ten storeys on the wharf it would look very lonely. By having a modern, environmentally responsible building that fronts on the water will show off that Saint John is growing, much better than small high-rise.

Hopefully new development sites will continue to open on the waterfront: if the Coast Guard site ever gets developed and this HQ goes ahead, the density centred around the board-walk area will be a real boon for the city.