ByWard Market tenants petition against city's renovation plans, fearing displacement
Sixteen businesses signed a strongly worded letter to city officials opposing a plan to renovate the historic market building and terminate leases.
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Over a dozen businesses occupying the historic ByWard Market building in downtown Ottawa are vehemently opposed to a possible plan to renovate and evict the tenants. Sixteen tenants and business owners signed a strongly worded letter sent to the mayor, councillors, several business associations, and MPs, including the prime minister.
"We, the undersigned tenants, have reviewed the staff report and its 'reimagining' strategy for the ByWard Market Building. We are shocked to discover that the report recommends the termination of the leases of the building's 17 existing successful small business tenants specializing in foods and crafts (many of whom have been in the building for 30 years) to accommodate a set of vaguely described and poorly justified new uses," the letter reads.
The ByWard Market Public Realm Plan, launched in February, identified areas the municipality wants to refurbish in the historical district. The massive revitalization undertaking includes seven different projects, one of which is the rehabilitation of the market building. Amanda Mullins, Manager of ByWard Market Strategic Projects, said that work to design, develop, and secure funding is still underway over the next several years. "Council has not approved a final design or future occupancy strategy for the buildings, and no decisions have been made regarding potential tenant relocations. Existing lease agreements remain in effect," Mullins stated.
Maxine A. Hill, owner of Canada in a Basket who has operated businesses in the ByWard Market for more than 30 years, noted that after years of "instability"—fires, sinkholes, changing landlords, rising costs, and COVID-19 impacts—the market was finally regaining customers through festivals and tourism initiatives. "We are once again witnessing the vibrant, lively, and dynamic atmosphere that has always made the ByWard Market one of Ottawa's greatest attractions," she wrote. The first construction related to the revitalization plan is starting this year on William Street between George and York streets for road renewal, though no "major" construction is expected until after the ByWard Market's 200th anniversary in 2027.
At a glance
What is the ByWard Market Public Realm Plan?
The ByWard Market Public Realm Plan, launched in February, identified areas the municipality wants to refurbish in the historical district. The massive revitalization undertaking includes seven different projects, one of which is the rehabilitation of the market building.
How many tenants oppose the renovation plan?
Sixteen tenants and business owners signed a letter opposing the plan. The letter notes that 17 existing small business tenants occupy the ByWard Market building, many of whom have been there for 30 years.
When will major construction start?
No 'major' construction related to the ByWard Market Public Realm Plan is expected until after the ByWard Market's 200th anniversary in 2027. The first construction, on William Street between George and York streets for road renewal, is starting in 2026.
