Demolition of Institutional Buildings at the Asticou Centre

Gatineau, Québec – July 10 2026 – The National Capital Commission has determined that the proposed project is not likely to cause significant adverse environmental effects with the application of all recommended mitigation measures.

This determination was based on a consideration of the following factors:

• technically and economically feasible mitigation measures; and,
• the components of the environment that are within the legislative authority of Parliament identified in the "Definitions" section of the Impact Assessment Act.

Mitigation measures will be implemented to address potential adverse effects on the following components of the environment, such as migratory birds, species at risk, groundwater, surface water, soil quality, air quality, vegetation, ecological and human health.

Some of the mitigation measures considered for this determination are: 

• Implement an erosion and sediment control plan to stabilize disturbed areas and prevent erosion into water bodies. 
• Implement an Emergency Spill Response Plan to address spill containment and clean-up. 
• Implement a soil management plan by a qualified consultant to safely import clean soil and remove and dispose of any contaminated soil following all federal or provincial regulations.  
• Clean all heavy equipment and ensure free of invasive species prior to accessing federal lands to prevent the spread and introduction of invasive species. 
• Conduct any tree and vegetation removals outside of Environment Canada's bird nesting window on federal lands (April 8 to August 28) to prevent disturbance or harm to nesting birds and their young.
• Conduct pre-demolition survey by a qualified biologist 48 hours before start of work, including a 90-minute targeted acoustic session starting at sunset to ensure work can proceed with no disturbance or destruction of active nests or breeding individuals. 
• Upon completion of construction, all disturbed areas must be reinstated using native seed mixtures to prevent the spread of invasive plant species. 

After reviewing the comments received and conducting an internal review of effects, the National Capital Commission is satisfied that the implementation of the project is not likely to cause significant adverse environmental effects, as long as all mitigation measures are applied. Therefore, the National Capital Commission may carry out the project, exercise any power, perform any duty or function, or provide financial assistance to enable the project to be carried out in whole or in part.

For questions or requests, please contact Civil-Enviro@ncc-ccn.ca