Ottawa Citizen

The Conservative government should not sell any federal properties on Wellington Street or Sussex Drive because the buildings are a significant part of the history and heritage of Canada, several leading heritage architects say. Reacting to news of a proposed government property selloff to raise money, the experts say the government should not look at the buildings as mere bricks and mortar to be sold off, but as cultural treasures that should be maintained for posterity. In particular, they say, Wellington and Sussex reflect the essence of the country and it would be a tragedy if parts were hived off to the highest bidder. “The whole of Wellington east of LeBreton Flats and the whole of Sussex should be regarded as special areas of national interest and not be sold,” said John Leaning, former chief architect for the National Capital Commission. “If they are thinking of disposing of any federal buildings there, they should stop.”