The NCC has launched consultations regarding its plans to update its National Capital Core Area Plan. For New Edinburgh residents and others, one proposal within the plan may be of particular interest.
The Sussex Blocks “opportunity” within the plan proposes to “redevelop the urban blocks to support the Rideau Hall tourist anchor, with a possible new public park and mid-rise, mixed-use buildings in an architectural style faithful to New Edinburgh’s historic neighbourhood character,” according to the NCC.
A map in the plan shows the Sussex Blocks would run between Stanley Avenue and MacKay Street, and from Sussex Drive to Thomas Street. Photo renderings in an NCC presentation show four-storey buildings in a traditional style of architecture.
The three blocks of land are owned by the NCC and are currently zoned for development (and no longer designated for future embassies due to the security risk). The NCC would have full control over the design and architect for the development. Note that the NCC states that: “Based on public participation and feedback, detailed plans and recommendations will be developed for each sector to guide future development.”
New Edinburgh Community Alliance (NECA) has requested a full consultation with the entire community with the NCC on the Sussex Blocks proposal. A public meeting has been set for Thursday, March 6, from 7 to 8:30 pm at St Bartholomew’s parish hall. This is your opportunity to provide feedback on this important development within New Edinburgh.
The full core area sector plan with details on each of the sectors (including the one discussed here) is also available at National Capital Core Area Plan.
Next steps/ action:
Should you have feedback to share with the NCC on this proposal, please copy NECA (at this email address: newedinburgh@outlook.com) on that feedback to help inform NECA’s position. NECA’s preliminary comments to the NCC can be found here. NCC’s response can be found here.
For anyone who missed the online survey deadline of February 12 (or wishes to send comments via email), they are welcome to send feedback to the NCC at: consultations@ncc-ccn.ca.
