Building LeBreton

The NCC is embarking on a process to create a renewed vision for a dynamic Capital destination and a complete community where people can live, work and play. The draft Master Concept Plan for LeBreton Flats is based on early input from the public and key stakeholders.

Draft Master Concept Plan

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Based on public feedback, this draft plan envisions a place that is pedestrian friendly, surrounded by lively and active parks and plazas, including the dynamic Aqueduct District, the Ottawa riverfront, and a large destination park. A future diverse residential community will be supported by retail and employment opportunities, capitalizing on direct access to two LRT stations.

Master Concept Plan

Learn more about the LeBreton Flats draft Master Concept Plan.

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Project Overview

Public input has informed the creation of a new LeBreton Flats draft Master Concept Plan, which outlines a cohesive vision for the 24-hectare site. The site is anchored by two new light rail transit (LRT stations) at Pimisi and Bayview, a revitalized aqueduct water feature, and Nepean Inlet with access to the Ottawa River.

This plan will guide the implementation of the project in a strategically phased approach over the coming decades. The Master Concept Plan will ensure an ambitious, cohesive and feasible vision to create a dynamic community.

Process and Timeline

The Building LeBreton project was launched following the cancellation of the previous LeBreton redevelopment project.

The first public consultation on the Building LeBreton project was held on June 18.

Outreach to key stakeholders is ongoing, including arts, culture and heritage groups, affordable housing providers and advocates, home builders, institutions and other community groups.

Following a competitive process, the NCC hired a team of experts led by 02 Planning + Design. 02 launched an integrated design process informed by input from the public consultation.

A second public consultation on the draft Master Concept Plan will be held on November 21.

The NCC Board of Directors will consider approval of the recommended new Master Concept Plan for LeBreton Flats.

The NCC will launch a call for proposals to develop a section of LeBreton Flats adjacent to the future Ottawa Public Library–Library and Archives joint facility as part of an existing Library District vision.

Development of and engagement on the phasing and implementation strategy.

The City of Ottawa will consider an application to amend the Official Plan to implement the policies in the LeBreton Flats Master Concept Plan.

Begin process to request development proposals for one or more parcels.

Guiding Principles

The NCC revised the guiding principles based on public input received in June 2019. Here are the updated guiding principles on which the project objectives will be based.

	Enhance the Capital Experience Reflect the national significance of LeBreton Flats by creating an ambitious new Capital destination that celebrates Canada.
	Build Community Create an inclusive place where anyone can live, work and play. Provide for facilities, services and public spaces that are active, lively and flexible and that contribute to community health and well-being.
	Value Nature Prioritize the importance of the environment through design that restores, enhances and protects the natural features of the site, and provides greater accessibility to waterways. Utilize green infrastructure, promote biodiversity and create new green spaces.
	Create Connections Connect people and place by creating interactive public spaces and linking to amenities and surrounding communities. Build on access to LRT, and establish active transportation networks using a Vision Zero approach.
	Foster Sustainability and Innovation Embed a culture of excellence throughout the life cycle of the project, and provide opportunities for innovation in design and sustainability. Build in climate mitigation and resiliency measures to aim to achieve a zero carbon community.
	Honour the Past Honour and interpret the role LeBreton Flats has played as a place of significance for Indigenous peoples and in the development of the Capital, and connect this story to the site’s future. Recognize the lasting effects of important milestones such as the community’s expropriation.
	Make It Happen Ground the vision in a strategic implementation approach supported by market feasibility. Consult with the public and collaborate with partners to support timely progress and generate social, environmental and economic returns.

A World-Class Project

The Building LeBreton project will build on past experience and global best practices to create a lively fusion of world-class public-realm amenities with residential, commercial, cultural and social elements.

Here are some other cities we are looking to for inspiration:

Quartier des spectacles - Montréal, Québec : https://gomontrealtourism.com/

Millennium Park - Chicago, Illinois : https://netdna-ssl.com/

Waterfront Redevelopment - Toronto, Ontario : https://www.toronto.ca/

Container Park - Las Vegas, Nevada : https://www.socialworkdegreeguide.com/

The Yards - Washington, D.C. : https://www.mwcog.org/

The Wharf - Washington, D.C. : http://www.perkinseastman.com/

St. Patrick Island - Calgary, Alberta : http://www.marmotconstruction.com/

HafenCity - Hamburg, Germany : http://www.mirallestagliabue.com/

False Creek - Vancouver, British Columbia : http://www.cloudfront.net/

Rose Kennedy Greenway - Boston, Massachussets : http://www.decordova.org/

Clichy-Batignolles - Paris, France : http://ademe.fr/

Galerie Pearl Street Mall - Boulder, Colorado : https://www.obligatorytraveler.com/

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History of LeBreton Flats

The NCC became custodian of LeBreton Flats in the early 1960s. This site, located just 1.5 kilometres west of the Capital’s Parliamentary Precinct and central business district, is steeped in Canada’s history.