Ottawa’s Nepean Sportsplex to Host New Asylum Seeker Welcoming Centre
Knoxdale-Merivale Councillor Voices Confidence in Community Support
Ottawa is preparing to establish a “welcoming centre” for asylum seekers near the Nepean Sportsplex, with a potential second site in Kanata South if demand grows. Ottawa city staff released a memo Thursday night detailing the plan, projecting the centre could be operational by late 2025.
These new centres are being developed to alleviate pressure on Ottawa’s shelter systems, which are currently stretched thin due to a recent surge of asylum seekers arriving in Canada. According to city officials, the facilities are intended to offer a more dignified and accommodating environment for newcomers, compared to existing shelters.
The primary structure chosen for the centre is a large, tent-like facility, similar to those designed by the Sprung company. These modular structures are known for their cost-effectiveness and swift setup, making them an ideal solution for urgent shelter needs. Clara Freire, Ottawa’s General Manager of Community and Social Services, emphasized that these centres will offer “a more dignified option for newcomers who are currently sleeping on bunk beds in recreational facilities that were not designed for human habitation.”
The welcoming centres will be customized to include private living areas, kitchens, washrooms, and communal spaces to create a supportive and welcoming environment for those seeking refuge.
The first centre is slated for the Nepean Sportsplex area, located near Woodroffe Avenue and West Hunt Club Road. This site, situated along the edge of Ottawa’s Greenbelt, is currently under lease by the city from the National Capital Commission (NCC). The site encompasses an underused football field that will be repurposed for the project. Ottawa’s lease agreement with the NCC facilitated the swift selection and use of this space for the welcoming centre.
Knoxdale-Merivale Councillor Sean Devine, whose ward includes the Nepean Sportsplex site, expressed confidence that his community will embrace the initiative. Devine addressed initial community concerns, acknowledging that “adverse reactions” are a natural response, but adding, “I’m not going to let fear get in the way of compassion.” He emphasized his belief that “Ward 9 is ready to help.”
Councillor Devine also noted his concerns regarding communication around the project, as he was informed of the decision only a day before the site was publicly announced. Nonetheless, Devine voiced optimism that his constituents would support the city’s efforts to welcome newcomers.
This initiative marks an important step in Ottawa’s response to increasing migration and shelter demands, with the Nepean Sportsplex site positioned to set a precedent for community-supported refugee accommodations.
Source : Swifteradio.com
