PRINCE ALBERT, Sask. — The former Prince Albert Pulp Mill, dormant for nearly two decades, is set for revival following its acquisition by the BMI Group, one of Canada’s leading developers specializing in the renewal of legacy industrial properties. The move positions the site as a cornerstone for economic renewal in northern Saskatchewan, connecting industrial redevelopment with community-focused growth.
The transaction, which closed on October 31, 2025, represents the first major opportunity in years to repurpose the 2,331-acre mill complex into a modern industrial hub. The property includes more than 900,000 square feet of building space, direct rail access, and a power capacity of up to 130 megawatts—key assets that could attract new investment in resource processing, logistics, and emerging bio-economy sectors.
A National Leader in Industrial Redevelopment
With a national track record of breathing new life into shuttered industrial sites, BMI Group has built a reputation as one of Canada’s most active redevelopers of mill and manufacturing lands. Its projects have generated more than $1 billion in tenant investment, notably through its Bioveld Niagara campuses in Ontario, where clean-tech and advanced manufacturing firms now operate alongside traditional industries.
BMI’s approach is rooted in transforming disused industrial infrastructure into regional catalysts for economic and social renewal. In Iroquois Falls, the company’s redevelopment of a former paper mill into the Abitibi Connex Multi-Modal Hub reconnected the community to the Ontario Northland Railway, supporting major infrastructure and northern supply-chain projects. In Red Rock, BMI is integrating housing construction with the conversion of another mill site into a mineral-processing and logistics centre.
Beyond industrial reuse, BMI has ventured into heritage and hospitality projects, partnering with Marriott International to transform Stratford’s oldest hotel into The Queen’s Cue, and leading restoration efforts that celebrate local history while supporting new economic activity. The company’s model—linking industrial readiness with community renewal—is now being applied to Prince Albert.
“I often say our work begins with listening,” said Paul Veldman, CEO of BMI Group. “But when we walked the streets of Prince Albert and met with Mayor Powalinsky, community members, and local business leaders, it was all about seeing; strong people, deep roots, and a community ready to grow. That combination is exciting for us.”
Regional and Community Collaboration
The redevelopment of the Prince Albert site is expected to serve as a key driver of regional renewal. With its strategic location along the North Saskatchewan River and multimodal access, the city is well positioned to support new clusters in resource processing, logistics, and community infrastructure. BMI’s integrated expertise across residential, hospitality, and industrial development will guide a series of collaborative initiatives designed to align the site’s industrial potential with the region’s growth goals.
The company’s philosophy emphasizes that industrial strength and community wellbeing are interdependent. Plans for the site will consider new housing, public spaces, and local amenities that help attract and retain the workforce required to sustain economic growth in Prince Albert.
“We’re really excited about this new partnership with the BMI Group. It speaks directly to our vision of Prince Albert as a healthy city of opportunities, one that supports diversity and innovation,” said Mayor Bill Powalinsky. “Repurposing the former pulp mill site is not just about revitalizing an underutilized property; it’s about strengthening our local economy, creating new opportunities, and positioning our community for long-term growth.”
Building Partnerships with Indigenous and Local Leaders
A hallmark of BMI’s redevelopment model is deep collaboration with local governments, First Nations, residents, and regional stakeholders. Each project begins with a shared vision that honours local history while creating lasting economic and social benefits. That approach is being extended to the Prince Albert initiative through new partnerships with Indigenous communities and local organizations.
“Our community has sustained and been sustained by these lands for generations,” said Chief John Waditaka of the Wahpeton Dakota First Nation. “This site is part of that story. Together with BMI, we can put it to work in ways that bring lasting benefit to our people and opportunity for generations to come.”
“This marks the beginning of a partnership built on respect and shared purpose,” said Chief Kirby Constant of the James Smith Cree Nation. “By working alongside BMI, we can strengthen our communities and build something lasting together.”
The Prince Albert and District Chamber of Commerce also expressed strong support for the initiative. “The Chamber looks forward to working with BMI to help attract a range of new end users to the site,” said Patty Hughes, CEO of the Chamber. “A diversified mix of employers will not only strengthen Prince Albert’s economy but also create lasting opportunities for local businesses, trades, and workers. This kind of partnership between the private sector and the community is exactly what drives long-term resilience and growth.”
A Platform for Shared Prosperity
Together, BMI’s partnerships and redevelopment strategy mark a significant step forward for northern Saskatchewan. The transformation of the long-idle pulp mill site into a modern industrial and community hub promises to inject new energy into the region’s economy—bridging its industrial legacy with future-focused development.
For Prince Albert, the acquisition represents more than the revival of a single property; it signals the beginning of a broader story of renewal—one built on collaboration, respect, and shared prosperity.
