As reported via multiple sources included the CBC News link included in this post, the Federal government has published a list of buildings that it is exploring divestment options for. Given the shift towards shifting modes of working (hybrid, remote, etc.) it is not surprising that there would be an interest in reducing office space held as requirements have lessened. Another consideration would be where these buildings are within their lifecycle and the upcoming costs to improve their condition.

Based on the CBC News article the current list is:

• L’Esplanade Laurier’s East Tower at 140 O’Connor St., downtown.
• L’Esplanade Laurier’s West Tower at 300 Laurier Ave. W., downtown.
• L’Esplanade Laurier’s Commercial building at 171-181 Bank St., downtown.
• The Jackson Building at 122 Bank St., near L’Esplanade.
• The Rideau Falls Lab at 1 John St. in New Edinburgh.
• The Sir Charles Tupper Building at 2720 Riverside Dr. near Mooney’s Bay.
• The 1500 Bronson Building at 1500 Bronson Ave., also near Mooney’s Bay.
• The Graham Spry Building at 250 Lanark Ave. in Westboro.
• The Brooke Claxton Building at Tunney’s Pasture.
• The Asticou Centre at 241 blvd. Cité des Jeunes in Gatineau.

Future Opportunities

With the disposal of buildings it will be interesting to see how these site evolve, what continued uses or new uses are accommodated and if or how their potential sale will unlock new capital to accommodate improvements (via leaseback or other similar arrangement). Buildings like 1500 Bronson and Sir Charles Tupper occupy fairly large properties and are within Confederation Heights which is currently being studied for redevelopment. Given their location within the inner urban portion of Ottawa and proximity to transit there are a diverse range of opportunities to accommodate potential building reuse while allowing for new development.