Cold War bomb shelter in rural Nova Scotia is being repurposed as a luxury bunker

A 1964 Diefenbunker near Camp Debert is being renovated into 50 luxury condominiums called The Diefenbaker, and owners say about $8 million has been invested so far.

A former Cold War fallout shelter near Camp Debert in rural Nova Scotia is being renovated into a condominium project called The Diefenbaker. The concrete, two-storey structure was built in 1964 as one of several Diefenbunkers across Canada. Owners say work began less than a year ago and the site has drawn interest from well-off buyers. About $8 million has been invested so far. Key details: - The project plans 50 condominium suites and is being marketed under the name The Diefenbaker, with brochure language that includes the phrase "Luxury Safe Haven." - Developers say roughly 15 suites are due for completion next year, with the remaining units scheduled by the end of 2027. - The building was originally designed with metre-thick walls and life-support systems intended during the Cold War era; it later served as public-tour site and secure data storage. - Current and recent owners include blockchain expert Jonathan Baha'i, who bought the site in 2012, and project co-owner Paul Mansfield, who has discussed the renovation publicly. - The developers say the site will include self-sustaining systems for extended periods, hotel use when suites are not occupied, and on-site amenities supported by about 40 staff members. Summary: The renovation repurposes a historic Cold War shelter into private residences and hospitality space aimed at an exclusive clientele. Owners report a multi-year build schedule with partial occupancy planned next year and full completion by the end of 2027. The project has drawn attention as part of a broader media-noted trend in luxury bunkers and has prompted commentary about wealth and social separation. Further developments will unfold as the renovation progresses.