NCC unveils draft designs for new LeBreton Flats Master Concept Plan

The National Capital Commission (NCC) is laying out seven principles, which are expected to guide future development at LeBreton Flats.

Images from the latest proposed plan are being made available, and a public meeting is being held Thursday evening to discuss what direction residents want to see the project taken.  

The seven guiding principles for the design, laid out by the NCC, are as follows: enhance the capital experience, build community, value nature, create connection, foster sustainability and innovation, honour the past, and make it happen.

The NCC says, based on public feedback, its draft plan envisions a place that is pedestrian friendly, surrounded by parks and plazas, including the 'Aqueduct District,' the Ottawa riverfront, and a large destination park. A future residential community would then be supported by retail and employment opportunities, capitalizing on direct access to two LRT stations.

Officials with the organization explain that there will be room in the project for a major “anchor” event centre, such as an NHL-sized arena.

The concept plan has the land separated out in sections: 

• Aqueduct District: A vibrant entertainment district with boutique retail, lively cafés and restaurants lining the aqueducts.
• Flats District: A pedestrian oriented, primarily residential neighbourhood.
• Albert District: A mixed-use main street neighbourhood that provides space for homes and offices, as well as shops and services along Albert Street.
• Library District: An extension of Ottawa’s downtown, which anchors the eastern end of LeBreton Flats beside the future Library and Archives Canada and Ottawa Public Library joint facility.
• Urban Playground: Urban play space that provides opportunities for active recreation to people of all ages and abilities.
• LeBreton Place: A signature opportunity site for an entertainment/music venue, cultural institution or sports complex in the heart of the Aqueduct District.
• Potential Events Centre: A flexible site that could accommodate an events centre or other large anchor near Albert and Preston streets.

The NCC plans to tender out each section, with plans for the profits from the sale. 

“We will be able to take the proceeds from that and reinvest them in the site, into the public realm,” explained NCC CEO Tobi Nussbaum.

This new plan is expected to guide the implementation of the project in “a strategically phased approach over the coming decades,” according to the NCC. 

The organization adds, “The Master Concept Plan will ensure an ambitious, cohesive and feasible vision to create a dynamic community.”

The NCC will vote on the plan in January and has plans to put the Library District out for tender shortly after.