Booth Street

This redevelopment is the largest heritage designation project in Canada Lands’ history

GOVERNMENT OF CANADA PUBLIC LAND BANK

In an effort to address the increasing demand for much needed housing across the country, the Government of Canada has created a Public Land Bank mapping tool with the intent to identify available public lands across the country for future development. This tool highlights several Canada Lands Company properties that will be utilized to provide housing where it’s needed most, including the Booth Street development’s Site 1 parcel of 2.6-hectares (6.4-acres) located at 552 Booth Street in the NW quadrant. The parcel is expected to yield up to 1,000 housing units and affordable housing through apartments.

PROPERTY BACKGROUND INFORMATION

Booth Street, 2.5 hectares (6.5 acres), was acquired by Canada Lands in 2015 from Natural Resources Canada. The site occupies an entire city block 15 minutes southwest of Parliament Hill. The site is connected to pedestrian and cycling paths and is close to transit and a highway.

The redevelopment is the largest heritage designation project in Canada Lands’ history. The buildings on-site have a heritage designation and appear on the City of Ottawa’s Heritage Reference List due to their architectural style and their significance to the historical development of Canada’s mining and energy industries. The former Central Heating Plant, including its iconic smokestack is an important community landmark.

The City of Ottawa unanimously approved Canada Lands’ official plan, secondary plan and zoning by-law for the property in 2019, which included a commitment to 10% affordable housing. The City recognized the company for its thoughtful approach to public engagement. The development concept envisions a vibrant mixed-use community hub that carries forward the site’s historic significance, prioritizes walkability and sustainability, and includes housing and affordable housing .

A summary of the materials that were presented throughout the engagement process for the Booth Street is available here.

Canada Lands and the City of Ottawa continue the park planning process, and Canada Lands will soon begin its marketing program to support the sale of the property.