HERITAGE OTTAWA

Heritage Ottawa is not opposed to changes to Lansdowne Park to ensure the ongoing sustainability of the site. But as a unique location overlooking the Rideau Canal UNESCO World Heritage Site and the property's historical significance to the city, certain issues need to be addressed. 

As the controversy over Lansdowne 2.0 continues, Heritage Ottawa is concerned for the appropriate preservation of two significant heritage structures on the site — the Horticulture Building and the Aberdeen Pavilion, a National Historic Site of Canada.                 

We welcome the proposal’s recommendation that needed repairs and upgrades be made to both of these important structures. However, given the financial uncertainties associated with many aspects of Lansdowne 2.0, there exists a risk that much-needed maintenance, operating and restoration funds for these important public assets may be given a lower priority. Any final agreement should strongly emphasize the City’s commitment to preserve and protect these historically significant buildings as an integral part of any approved development of Lansdowne Park.

Heritage Ottawa supports the proposed improvements of the view plane from Bank Street to the Aberdeen Pavilion along Exhibition Way, based on the 2012 Heritage Conservation Easement Agreement between the City and the Ontario Heritage Trust (OHT), by the proposed setback of the podium for the apartment towers. 

We strongly disagree, however, with the conclusion of the Heritage Impact Assessment that the proposed development will have no negative impacts on the heritage buildings. Even with the removal of the easternmost tower as proposed, the two remaining high-rise buildings will continue to cast a shadow on the Aberdeen Pavilion and to a lesser extent, the Horticulture Building. 

The proposed development will also adversely affect the view planes from the Rideau Canal UNESCO World Heritage Site, protected by the 1993 Cost-Share Agreement on the Aberdeen Pavilion between the City and Parks Canada.

Heritage Ottawa therefore strongly opposes Friday's motion by Councillor Tierney that the third tower be reinstated. 

CONTACT YOUR COUNCILLOR and encourage a "no" vote on the motion.

Heritage Ottawa looks forward to a final proposal that emphasizes the importance of the site as a viable heritage asset and as a community gathering place.

Heritage Ottawa was one of the 80 plus delegates that signed on to speak to councillors on the joint finance and corporate services and planning and housing committees, a process that spanned over 15 hours on November 2 and 3, 2023. 

Related Reading: Decision on Lansdowne 2 .0 Delayed Until November 10

Heritage Ottawa 50 Years / 50 Stories: The Aberdeen Pavilion

Heritage Ottawa 50 Yeards / 50 Stories: The Horticulture Building