The Lansdowne redevelopment process and the public policy issues involved are the subject of a research paper presented at the Canadian Political Science Association Annual Conference. A group of Carleton University academics trace the steps of the design process and examine a number of fundamental questions that underpin the discussion surrounding Lansdowne and conclude that the manner in which the city addressed these considerations was inadequate and unsatisfactory.

How does the city decide the use of public space? What is the rationale behind the change in land use with a public context? Who are the drivers of the redevelopment process? Have the principles of good governance and urban planning have been set aside in order to expedite the deliberations?  

The scholars conclude that it is questionable that the City acted appropriately with respect to how it carried out its consultations, took decisions and dealt with the public. The public has the right and responsibility to decide on the definition and use of Lansdowne Park; however the proponents made little effort to accommodate this thereby undermining the legitimacy of the entire process. The process represents an unfortunate shift in city politics; a divisive form of politics that elevates short-term economic interests above all others in decisions about public space, dismisses the importance of due process and pits the various communities against each other. The events surrounding the Lansdowne Park development is a tragedy unfolding in the nation’s capital city.

Read the full paper presented to the annual Canadian Politicial Science Association conference.