Ottawa’s dream for a new downtown arena that would house the city’s NHL franchise is closer to becoming a reality.
An agreement is now in place between the hockey team and the National Capital Commission to sell approximately 11 acres of property on LeBreton Flats to the Senators.
Senators’ President Cyril Leeder indicated this was the first of many steps in a lengthy process.
The announcement came on Monday.
“We are pleased to reach an agreement of purchase and sale with the NCC to take the next step in this process,” Leeder said, adding – “There are still many more hurdles to clear, and we look forward to working with the NCC and other stakeholders to achieve our shared vision of creating an event centre at LeBreton Flats that can be enjoyed by our Ottawa-Gatineau community.”
While financial terms were not disclosed, the look and feel of the property is taking shape. It is expected that new housing units, in the neighbourhood of 2000, will be built as well as a section for restaurants, bars, a new hotel and other retail outlets.
“The promise of a major events centre will provide a lively and convenient attraction for residents and visitors, inject new energy and excitement into the core of the Nation’s Capital and further catalyze the development of LeBreton Flats,” said NCC Chief Executive Officer Tobi Nussbaum.
Now it will be on to next steps for the two sides. That will include decontamination of the land and zoning and structuring designs for the property.
A memorandum of understanding was agreed upon back in 2022 between the two sides to develop the site.
The Senators have played out of their current facility (now the Canadian Tire Centre) in Kanata since 1996. Current owner Michael Andlauer has been a proponent for a move downtown since taking over the club in June 2023.
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Photo: Courtesy CP
