NCC approves redevelopment of seven federal properties at Confederation Heights

The National Capital Commission has approved the disposal of seven federal properties, including two heritage office buildings, at Confederation Heights.

At an NCC board meeting on Tuesday, June 23, members greenlit the disposal of the lands and approved a master plan to guide redevelopment of the federal office campus near Hog's Back Park. Currently, the area is a mix of federal office buildings, large parking lots, highway-style ramps, and low-quality green space.

"Proposals for a new master plan and disposal of surplus federal property have the goal of redeveloping the site into a thriving, connected and sustainable mixed-use community," said Marion Gale, NCC senior planner.

Public Services and Procurement Canada has been aiming to sell or transfer surplus buildings across the National Capital Region. With NCC approval, two heritage buildings can now move to the Canada Lands Company: the former CBC building (Edward Drake Building) at 1500 Bronson Ave., described as "one of the best examples of Canadian modern architecture," and the Taxation Data Centre at 875 Heron Rd., an 11-storey building housing Canada Revenue Agency workers. Both are in critical condition according to Treasury Board's property ratings.

The master plan calls for at least 150 housing units per hectare across roughly 49 hectares and allows buildings between three and 40 storeys. It includes interconnected greenspace and an extensive trail network for pedestrians and cyclists. The plan permits "adaptive reuse" of all three heritage buildings or portions thereof. Three parcels—the Canada Post Headquarters, a Health Canada facility, and the Sir Leonard Tilley Building—are expected to remain in federal use.