NCC approves new central library design, Master Concept Plan for LeBreton Flats

The National Capital Commission (NCC) Board of Directors has approved the final design for the new Ottawa Public Library and Library and Archives Canada joint building slated for LeBreton Flats, as well as its Master Concept Plan for the area.

For the library, the NCC worked with the City of Ottawa to design a sustainable and modern facility with full accessibility. The design incorporates natural woods, curved edges and features aspects of Indigenous history.

The main features that make the building inclusive are:

• Multiple entrances
• Glass elevators
• All gender washrooms
• Sensory rooms
• Interior ramps

The library will be the central feature of the Albert District mixed-use neighborhood in LeBreton Flats. 

This 1.1-hectare site, located at 665 Albert Street will also feature a potential event centre or some type of major facility to the west. There will also be space for homes and offices, as well as shops and services. According to the NCC, the library parcel will have 180 affordable housing units with rents of no more than 80 per cent of the median market rent. 

The $192-million library and archives building is scheduled to open in 2025. 

Meanwhile, the Master Concept Plan, which will take multiple decades to fully come to fruition, is expected to turn the 29-hectare site into an urban community and tourist destination.

The new LeBreton Flats will be pedestrian and cyclist-friendly, with lots of green space and shops.

It will be made up of four districts:

• The Aqueduct District, described as the 'heart of LeBreton Flats,' will contain a vibrant cultural hub and entertainment district spilling out onto public space.
• The Flats District will be a predominantly residential community defined by pedestrian-oriented streets and a variety of housing types.
• The Albert District is described as a mixed-use neighbourhood anchored by the future Ottawa Public Library and Library and Archives Canada to the east and a potential event centre or major facility to the west. There will also be space for homes and offices, as well as shops and services.
• The Parks District will feature a series of green spaces.

The NCC says five proposals were submitted in early February and have since been evaluated, with three shortlisted bidders:

• Dream LeBreton is a partnership between Dream Asset Management Corporation and Dream Impact Master LP.
• One Planet Living LeBreton is a partnership between the Windmill Development Group, Ltd. (Windmill), Epic Investment Services (Epic) and Centretown Citizens Ottawa Corporation (CCOC).
• Team Central is a consortium led by Trinity Development Group, along with their local partners Hobin Architecture as design lead, Morley Hoppner as construction manager, Ottawa Community Housing as owner and operator of affordable housing, and the Good Companions as the owner and operator of seniors' services.

Following a request for proposals evaluation process, the NCC expects to announce the successful bidder in January 2022.