Defence Research Development Canada (DRDC) Ottawa Research Centre (ORC) Modified Design Build (MBD) building, Shirleys Bay, in Ottawa
Public Comment Period on Intent to Make a Determination
Defence Research Development Canada (DRDC) Ottawa Research Centre (ORC) Modified Design Build (MBD) building, Shirleys Bay, in Ottawa
March 6, 2026 — The authorities must decide whether the proposed project is likely to cause significant adverse environmental effects.
To help inform this decision, the authorities are inviting comments from the public on the project and its potential effects on the environment. All comments received will be considered public. For more information, individuals should consult the Privacy Notice on the Registry website.
Written comments must be submitted by March 25, 2026 to:
Khalid Bashir, Project Manager
Mailing Address: 101 Colonel By Drive, Ottawa
Ontario, Canada, K1A 0K2
E-mail: Khalid.Bashir@forces.gc.ca
or
Derek Boroczki, Project Director Mailing Address: 101 Colonel By Drive, Ottawa
Ontario, Canada, K1A 0K2
E-mail: Derek.Boroczki@forces.gc.ca
The Proposed Project
The Department of National Defence (DND) is proposing a project. This proposal is for the construction of approximately 21,135 m2 gross area purpose-built facility to provide reliable, secure premises at Shirley's Bay Campus (SBC) for Defence Research Development Canada (DRDC) as part of the successful delivery of the Ottawa Research Centre (ORC) mandate.
The project will take place on federal lands and is subject to a Federal Land Use, Design, and real estate Transaction Approval (FLUDTA) under the National Capital Act.
The proposed structure would be built on a currently vacant parcel of land on the SBC.
The proposed work includes the demolition of 27 existing structures whose operations will be consolidated into the single new facility. The project scope requires infrastructure upgrades to supply adequate power, sanitary, and water service for the new facility.
The construction area will be accessed with light and heavy machinery and equipment. Construction will adhere to federal environmental legislation, greening and sustainability policy and municipal bylaws for sewer use, noise, etc. as applicable.
The project will involve selective tree removals and landscaping, including the reinstatement of grounds on which existing structures are to be demolished.
Document reference number: 1