A proposal to redevelop the viewing terrace promenade on Parliament Hill poses fascinating opportunities for recreating a river "front garden" for the Parliament buildings. The heritage component of such a possible undertaking presents unusual opportunities given the sensitive and strategic nature of the site. The Escarpment Promenade can be seen as a vital connecting link in the development of an Ottawa River walkway system that connects strategic open spaces, natural, cultural features and buildings along both sides of the river. Through this possible design intervention the river could again be seen as the front door to the city and enhance urban connectivity to Ottawa's unique natural splendour.

Lecturer: Walter Kehm, a practicing landscape architect whose life-long passion has been the understanding of nature and cultures. He is currently a senior principal with Landinc, former president of EDA Collaborative and Chief Landscape Architect and Director of Project Planning Associates.