The Ottawa Senators and the National Capital Commission have completed a deal that sees the Senators purchase of 4.5 hectares (11 acres) of land in LeBreton Flats in downtown Ottawa. This area of land will be used by the team for the construction of a new stadium. Talks for area in this land date back to the late 2010’s, when the Senators will still owned by the late Eugene Melnyk. Financial details have not been disclosed as of now.
“There are still many more hurdles to clear, and we look forward to working with the NCC and other stakeholders to achieve our shared vision of creating an event centre at LeBreton Flats that can be enjoyed by our Ottawa-Gatineau community.”
- Cyril Leeder, Senators President and CEO
Previous negotiations fell apart in 2019 after a fall out with Melnyk, and his business partner, John Ruddy. Melnyk passed away in 2022, and Michael Andlauer, who once was a minority owner of the Montreal Canadiens, bought the team a year later. This plan replaces a previous agreement that would’ve given the team only 2.4 hectares (5.9 acres) of land, giving the team more space to work with.
“The promise of a major events centre will provide a lively and convenient attraction for residents and visitors, inject new energy and excitement into the core of the Nation’s Capital and further catalyze the development of LeBreton Flats.”
- Tobi Nussbaum, National Capital Commission CEO
Since 1996, the Senators played their home games at Canadian Tire Centre in Katana, Ontario, roughly 25 kilometers from Ottawa. The long drive for most fans from the nations capital opted to forgo the long drive, which meant for lower attendance numbers for their games. Now moving to Ottawa proper, it will be huge for both the team and the city as a major entertainment hub.
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