NCC publishes 25-year "National Capital Core Area Plan" for Ottawa's downtown core

The National Capital Commission (NCC) has published its updated National Capital Core Area Plan, a framework that lays out a bold vision for the evolution of Canada’s national capital for the next 25 years.  

Three transformative “big moves” are at the heart of the Core Area Plan: turning towards the water, making great public spaces, and creating connections. These big moves are infused throughout the plan’s physical concept, which presents ideas and opportunities to maximize use of waterfront locations, repair the capital’s urban fabric, and create vibrant streetscapes. The intent of these big moves can be seen reflected in some of the NCC’s recently completed projects, such as the NCC River House, Kìwekì Point and the Westboro Beach pavilion. 

"The National Capital Core Area Plan is a thoughtful roadmap for the future to enhance our Capital’s beauty and vibrancy, with bold ideas and an ambitious vision." said NCC CEO Tobi Nussbaum, "We’re excited to share this plan with Canadians and look forward to bringing this vision to life.” 

The plan also proposes projects to enhance the beauty, vibrancy and majesty of the downtown core, while also addressing issues such as climate resilience, economic development, public accessibility, housing and reconciliation.    

Over the course of the next year, the NCC says it will work to develop and refine specific sector plans that build on the objectives and ideas the plan puts forward - in consultation with municipal partners to maximize the opportunity for alignment - and informed by other public engagement and consultation activities.