During our presentation, we highlighted the work of the Société québécoise des infrastructures (SQI), whose proposed repurposing promotes the principles of sustainable development and a significant increase in the greening of the site, as well as its accessibility in situ and with Mount Royal Park. In this regard, we recalled the importance of integrating the green corridor, consisting of connected green spaces, with Mount Royal Park. We recommended that it be transferred to the City of Montreal by emphyteusis in order to better protect the natural environments that play an important role in the transition between the city and the mountain.
Les Amis reiterated the importance for the SQI to develop a forward-looking and unifying vision for this site in terms of the choice of uses, development, governance and phasing of execution. This would provide the foundation to make it the site of choice for future occupants wishing to contribute to the community's well-being, health and innovation.
The City of Montreal and the Government of Quebec, which has mandated the SQI to carry out this repurposing, must make strategic choices. For example, the ownership of the land must remain in the public domain to maintain control over the future of the Royal Victoria site over the long term. We reiterated the importance of adopting modern urban planning, governance and financing tools to achieve an exemplary project that will contribute to the mountain's recognition as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
To learn more about Les Amis de la montagne's recommendations and vision, we invite you to read our brief:
