News Release
Published on July 19, 2018
The NCC is pleased to announce that it has reached an agreement in principle with RendezVous LeBreton Group for the redevelopment of LeBreton Flats.
The agreement defines the main terms and conditions that will form part of a master development agreement governing the redevelopment of LeBreton Flats. The agreement in principle was approved by the NCC Board of Directors during an in-camera meeting on January 24, 2018.
LeBreton Flats Redevelopment
The redevelopment of LeBreton Flats offers a unique opportunity to create a dynamic new community in the heart of the capital.
During this period, in collaboration with RendezVous LeBreton Group, the NCC will continue to consult with the Algonquin Nation regarding its participation in this redevelopment project.
Highlights
The parties have agreed on a fair market value for the land, net of remediation costs. The NCC would retain federal land use and design approval over the first developments of both phases, and would coordinate its approval processes with the City of Ottawa.
Once the master development agreement is approved, the NCC will retain ownership of 1.6 hectares (four acres) of future green space for public use along Wellington Street, selling the remaining 19.8 hectares (49 acres) of the 21.4-hectare (53-acre) site to RendezVous LeBreton Group.
The project would be implemented and land conveyed over two phases. Phase one would include the public anchor use and all major public realm elements of the project. All public spaces that are part of the project will meet or exceed universal accessibility standards.
The agreement announced today represents a significant step, but is by no means the final step in the LeBreton Flats solicitation process. It clearly establishes principles that will inform the ultimate master development agreement to be negotiated over the next 12 to 18 months.
Next steps
Throughout the coming year, the NCC and RendezVous LeBreton Group will develop detailed terms for the master development agreement, which will be presented to the NCC Board and, when approved, submitted to the federal government.
In the meantime, the NCC will continue to present status updates to the NCC Board. Citizens will also have further opportunities to engage in the process.
Negotiation of master development agreement | 2018–2019 |
Algonquin Consultations | Ongoing since 2016 |
Federal approvals | 2018–2019 |
City of Ottawa municipal approval process: NCC–City of Ottawa integrated development approval process Official plan amendments Zoning amendments Plan of subdivision and related agreements | 2018–2019 |
Land conveyance (Phase 1) / Initiation of construction | 2019–2020 |
Quick Facts
- The competitive process to redevelop LeBreton Flats began in 2014, when the NCC launched a two-stage solicitation process designed to attract proposals of international calibre. In April 2016, the NCC determined that RendezVous LeBreton Group was the highest-ranked proponent and, in late November 2016, the NCC Board authorized the NCC to enter in formal negotiations with that proponent.
- A total of 7,939 Canadians submitted written comments on the proposals, and more than 3,000 participated either in person at the open house or via live broadcast during two weeks of public consultations held in January and February 2016.
- LeBreton Flats is home to the Canadian War Museum, the National Holocaust Monument, Pindigen Park, a multi-residential development, festival grounds and multi-use pathways, as well as being adjacent to the soon-to-be completed Ottawa light rail transit system.
Quotes
LeBreton Flats has the potential to become a new centre of economic and cultural activity in the Capital. The agreement in principle announced today represents a significant step toward realizing the most transformative project in the Capital in generations. I thank everyone for the hard work that has gotten us to this point, and look forward to the work ahead in accomplishing our shared goal.
Marc Seaman, Chair of the National Capital Commission
I commend both negotiation teams for their commitment to reaching this milestone. While much work remains to be done, I believe the terms and conditions forming this agreement in principle achieve best value for Canadians. In advancing this historic project, the goal is to integrate a dynamic new neighbourhood that reflects the national prominence of the site in the heart of our capital.
Dr. Mark Kristmanson, Chief Executive Officer of the National Capital Commission
On behalf of the RendezVous LeBreton team, I extend my thanks to the Board, Dr. Mark Kristmanson, and the staff of the NCC for their leadership in negotiating an agreement that will clean up a contaminated site on the banks of the Ottawa River and transform LeBreton Flats into a vibrant, accessible and sustainable community. I love this City and have been a lifelong resident. I look forward to our partnership with the NCC, the City of Ottawa and the residents of the region to restore this historic part of the nation’s capital to a brand new beginning.
John Ruddy, Trinity Development Group
I am thrilled to be one step closer to bringing Ottawa Senators fans a more enjoyable fan experience. Though there are still many hurdles to overcome, today we have moved closer to realizing a vision for LeBreton Flats – creating a place of pride for Ottawa residents, the Ottawa Senators hockey team, and visitors to the national capital region.
Eugene Melnyk, Ottawa Senators Hockey Club