Ottawa city councillors engaged in extensive deliberations over the future of Lansdowne Park, introducing multiple amendments before the crucial vote on whether to advance the Lansdowne 2.0 redevelopment project. The November 7, 2023, council meeting saw seven distinct motions and one staff direction that could significantly alter the massive urban renewal proposal.
The Alternative Vision for Lansdowne
Councillor Shawn Menard, representing Capital ward where Lansdowne Park is located, presented what he termed a "better Lansdowne motion" that offered a comprehensive alternative to the current Lansdowne 2.0 plan. His proposal called for council to reject the existing redevelopment framework while maintaining current agreements and commissioning third-party investment strategies specifically for the Civic Center and North Side stands.
The motion outlined a strategic approach focusing on cost-effective improvements rather than full-scale redevelopment. Key elements included enhancing transportation and transit access for visitors from urban, suburban, and rural areas, activating underutilized park areas with daytime programming, and creating community hubs, markets, and family-friendly events. The plan also emphasized preserving existing green space, amenities, and facilities while conducting operational performance reviews to identify efficiencies.
Economic Analysis and Governance Concerns
Menard's motion specifically requested that city staff commission an updated economic analysis reflecting newly materialized risks, particularly the potential competition from the proposed sports entertainment district at Le Breton Flats. The analysis would assess potential impacts on revenue, attendance, and lease agreements at Lansdowne Park.
The alternative plan also called for a renewed governance and oversight model featuring a board to provide transparent management oversight of park operations, sports teams, and retail leasing. Menard emphasized that any future redevelopment must prioritize public benefit, protect green space and existing facilities, and ensure financial prudence, transparency, and community support.
"I'm bringing this motion forward because it has never been about do nothing or proceed with Lansdowne 2.0," Menard stated. "There always should have been a viable alternative, and this is it."
Range of Proposed Amendments
The seven motions and one staff direction presented to council covered a broad spectrum of potential changes to the Lansdowne 2.0 proposal. Options ranged from completely scrapping the deal in favor of improving existing facilities to proceeding with lease negotiations with the Ottawa Charge. Other motions focused on preserving greenspace, improving transit options, and strengthening the city's oversight and governance structure if the deal were to proceed.
The council's decision comes at a critical juncture for the future of one of Ottawa's most significant public spaces, with the Lansdowne 2.0 proposal envisioning a new events centre and north-side stadium grandstand as part of the comprehensive redevelopment.
