Ottawa Senators Moving Forward: Purchase Key Land for New Arena

Ottawa Senators Move Forward on New Arena Construction

The Ottawa Senators are getting closer to finalizing the construction of a new arena. The team announced on Monday that it has reached an agreement with the National Capital Commission for the purchase and sale of land covering 11 acres in LeBreton Flats, located west of Parliament Hill in Ottawa. This agreement represents a significant step for the Senators in their plan to move from their current arena in Kanata, Ontario, about 15 miles from the Flats, to a more central location in the region. The financial terms of the agreement were not publicly disclosed. An initial agreement between the Senators and the NCC was reached last September, for a multi-use facility on the site that would include an ice rink.

There are still many obstacles to overcome and we look forward to working with the NCC and other stakeholders to achieve our shared vision of creating an events center in LeBreton Flats that can be enjoyed by our Ottawa-Gatineau community.

Cyril Leeder, President and CEO of the Senators

Now, the Senators’ process can continue with zoning, design, approvals, and decontamination of the land in preparation for future construction. NCC CEO Tobi Nussbaum added in a statement that the development will include more than 2,000 new housing units, along with new commercial and retail spaces, such as hotels and restaurants.

The promise of a major event center will provide a lively and convenient attraction for residents and visitors, inject new energy and enthusiasm into the heart of the Nation’s Capital, and further catalyze the development of LeBreton Flats.

Tobi Nussbaum, CEO of the NCC

This is the second time the Senators have tried to start a project in the Flats. There was a previous agreement in 2019 to redevelop the area under former Ottawa owner Eugene Melnyk, but it fell apart during a dispute between Melnyk and his business partner John Ruddy.