The Citizen asked columnist and artist Andrew King what could be done with the LeBreton Flats grounds. Choosing to err on the side of bigger and bolder — perhaps a good deal more so than the NCC will be inclined to pursue — he provided the following thoughts.
Imagining great things for LeBreton Flats — a sketch by Andrew King.
1. LeBreton Station: This new LRT station stop near Broad Street is a building made to resemble the original Broad Street rail station that used to exist at LeBreton Flats. It is the main access point to the new Flats concept.
2. The Village: A re-creation of an 1800s-early-1900s period streetscape that includes store fronts, commercial space, hotels and restaurants. The aesthetic of the street is strictly heritage, complete with gas lamps and cobbletone as the original LeBreton area may have looked, with recreations of specific places, such as Firth’s Tavern.
3. The Terrarium: A glass dome enclosing a forest setting that allows residents to enjoy the warmth of the sun and the relaxation of surrounding greenery on even the coldest of Ottawa days.
4. Waterfront restaurant patios: This area aids in providing a spot for waterfront dining that is lacking in Ottawa. It is located and angled in a position to take full advantage of the gorgeous Ottawa sunsets over the river in the western skies.
5. New museum of science and technology: This sprawling campus allows the museum to properly display its many artifacts that have been hidden away in storage and is aptly placed in an area that was once the industrial hub of Ottawa. Trains and other outdoor exhibits would also be displayed on the grounds.
6. Green-space park: This area is a relaxing park setting for picnics, outdoor events or just a stroll. Plaques inform visitors of the history of LeBreton Flats along the pathways. Outdoor art sculptures would also be present.
7. Aboriginal wheel: A stone circle monument representing the ancient aboriginal medicine wheel is placed in alignment with the stars and properly lit at night in recognition of the First Nations peoples who once inhabited LeBreton Flats. An outdoor amphitheatre is also present for outdoor concerts or theatre events.
8. Plaza Fountain: Surrounded by period village buildings that house craft brewery operations, this area is a plaza environment that has a fountain in the centre, and the space will be used for festival events. During the holiday season, it would be home to a large decorated tree.
The area of LeBreton Flats is both a cultural and historically important part of the nation’s capital that should be properly utilized to express the area’s past, as well as accommodate future generations. Placing a mix of both commercial, cultural and retail spaces in the area should allow us to fully enjoy the potential of this coveted downtown space. With its rich history and future possibilities, we must be mindful to place new landmarks that will work in harmony and make it a special place for both residents and visitors to enjoy.
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