City owes Wanderers $590k on stadium
HRM took control of “pop-up” stadium in 2025
by Josh Healey
The city’s audit and finance committee met last week and reviewed Halifax’s first year of managing the Wanderers Grounds “pop-up” stadium. A staff report noted operating costs went $590,385.10 over budget. That amount is now owed to Halifax Wanderers FC, which has a service agreement with HRM. Meanwhile, the decision on a permanent stadium and the potential redevelopment of the Wanderers Block to the tune of $116 million looms on the horizon.
Staff highlighted that the city’s stadium budget was approved relying on early assumptions and information supplied by the Wanderers, who had previously managed and operated the site. HRM took over the Wanderers Grounds in 2025 to provide equal access to the city’s other professional football team, the Halifax Tides FC of the Northern Super League (NSL).
Several stadium upgrades were required to make room for two professional soccer clubs, including expanded team spaces, relocating the media areas, electrical work, and improved services for food and beverage. Making the stadium fit for two teams instead of one costs more than staff expected.
