The development permit for Scotia Place – Calgary’s Event Centre – was approved Thursday afternoon, paving the way for the structure to now take shape.

Preliminary enabling work has been ongoing in the area since the new arena broke ground back in July, with this latest step at the Calgary Planning Commission effectively rubber-stamping the design of the actual building.

Commissioners quizzed both City planning officials, and the design team from Dialog and HOK, along with Calgary Sports and Entertainment Corporation (CSEC) officials on a variety of areas: Public engagement, energy efficiency, flood risk, parking, noise, accessibility and the ability of the general public to actually participate in the building.

Commissioner Chris Pollen asked if this would be a “building for all Calgarians” as was purported by those championing the deal. He said especially when the majority of Calgarians won’t be able to afford an NHL ticket.

“How that is sort of cemented within the approval of this building? Or is it just hopes that the (Calgary) Flames will deliver on that promise?” Pollen asked.

Initially, city officials said that the building was for paying guests attending concerts and sporting events in the location. They said, however, that there are benefits in the surrounding plazas, the preservation of heritage, the community rink and other aspect that provide a benefit to all Calgarians.

David White with CivicWorks, consulting on behalf of the design group, said it wasn’t a simple question to answer, considering the different drivers and scales in which to think about the project. He said it’s a state-of-the-art facility that will lead to more events – sports, art and entertainment.

White said it’s going to be the catalytic heart of the Culture and Entertainment District, it’s Rick Hansen certified for accessibility, and there are at-grade amenities for the public to participate in, along with public art and dynamic lighting.

Doug Cinnamon with Dialog said that the Flames account for roughly 45 games. There will be 200 annual events scheduled at the new building, with a variety of price points for all to participate.

“In our opinion, there are a lot of opportunities for people to participate, and when the Flames aren’t playing and the building is down from an event, all of those spaces that you saw along 12th Avenue and down Stampede Trail and the indoor gathering space are open to the public,” he said.

‘Proud of the process’ CSEC President and CEO

The building, which will have a capacity of 18,400 for hockey games and up to 20,000 for concerts, will also have an indoor public plaza, two festival streets (Stampede Trail and 14 Avenue SE), ground-level retail and commercial space and include the historic Stephenson and Co. Café incorporated as a part of it.

The also incorporates culturally significant elements of the area’s Indigenous Peoples. They’re represented through the use of fire, water/ice, land and air in various parts of the structure. There are also tipi rings that will make up portions of the outdoor space.

“We are extremely proud of the thoughtful process demonstrated by the project team to create a uniquely accessible events centre, both on the inside and the outdoor public spaces, that will be inviting, diverse and comfortable for all guests,” said CSEC President and CEO Robert Hayes.

All guests can access the main concourse area from street level, providing a barrier-free entry.

One question came up from Commissioner Jim Gordon about the washroom situation, which has been a sore spot since Rogers Place in Edmonton opened up.

There will be 340 toilets, which is 60 per cent more than the building code required, commission was told, with 1/3 for women, 1/3 for men, and 1/3 flex (so they have the opportunity to be changed by need).

Fear of derailing the project

Upon the start of questions, Commission Nathan Hawryluk sheepishly asked about the consequences of today’s debate.

“I was appointed soon after the previous Event Center application… what do we need to know about the funding and operation agreement in terms of CPCs decision – like, if we make any changes, are we going to kill the thing?” Hawryluk asked.

He’s referring to the previous direction given by Calgary Planning Commission on the prior project, including the need for the building to be LEED silver (which it now is), have solar power (which is now included) and have the ability to be converted to net zero (which is now is), along with ensuring street facing activities along the bulk of the buildings frontage.

Those ended up being dealbreakers last time, as those decisions set off a chain of events that led to the last arena deal collapsing.

But now, there will be 600 solar panels, and the building will be designed to be fully electrified by 2050 (likely at a much greater cost, given inflation).

There will be a Saddledome ceremony when that building is fully decommissioned, along with a future interpretive feature visible in a publicly accessible place, marking the Saddledome’s iconic history in Calgary.

The development permit will now be advertised for 21 days, as per regulations. Interested parties can file an appeal. After that, once all prior-to-release conditions are met, construction on the building itself can begin. (THOSE ARE BELOW)