Rendering of Clarendon Court
Clarendon Lane, Clarendon Court and York Court are part of the Sussex Courtyards, a series of enclosed outdoor spaces behind the buildings on Sussex Drive in downtown Ottawa. They are popular pedestrian-scale spaces, with mixed commercial, retail, restaurant and residential uses.
The NCC is undertaking rehabilitation work in the Clarendon Court, which includes the Clarendon and York Courtyards, as well as Clarendon Lane from York Steet to George Street.
About the project
This project aims to address ongoing safety concerns related to aging infrastructure, preserve and protect the heritage character of the courtyards, and ultimately enhance the experience for both tenants and the public who enjoy these spaces.
Specifically, this project includes:
- Replacing pavers, which will address existing trip hazards and protect the courtyards’ character-defining heritage features
- Improving universal access within the courtyards
- Replacing and improving lighting
- Updating stormwater management systems to address water ponding
- Replacing interpretive panels, furnishings and plantings
The Sussex Courtyards are a significant part of Ottawa’s heritage, and our objective is to preserve as many elements as possible. The cobblestone pavers that cannot be used for this project will be recycled for other NCC initiatives. New granite pavers have been carefully selected to match the originals within Clarendon Court.
Business Impacts: We recognize the challenge these essential repairs pose to our tenants and have been working with them to reduce disruptions to their operations. All tenant entrances will remain accessible and highly visible, with increased signage throughout the construction period.
Impact to pedestrians and cyclists: Pedestrian traffic within the courtyard between York and George Streets will be open for access to businesses. Access will be maintained for local businesses. Highly visible wayfinding and signage to the Courtyard businesses will be displayed at the four entry points to the Courtyard (two between 15 and 21 George Street, 12 and 18 York Street).
- Summer 2025: Internal courtyard fencing, removal of existing pavers, demolition and replacement of aged infrastructure and enhanced ground levelling within the Clarendon and York Courts
- Fall 2025: Installation of new stormwater management system and electrical infrastructure and completion of the new pavers work within the Clarendon and York Courts; ongoing but less intrusive work on Clarendon Lane
- Winter 2025-26: Continued work on Clarendon Lane
- Spring 2026: Finalization of construction, Clarendon Lane open to the public in spring 2026
For more information about the Sussex Courtyards, please visit our Web page.