NWMO unveils plans for Ignace Center of Expertise

The Nuclear Waste Management Organization has released conceptual plans on what its Center of Expertise might look like.

A couple of open houses were held Tuesday for the proposed 65,000 square foot building in Ignace.

NWMO spokesperson Vince Ponka says they want public input into the building.

“To show people what we’re thinking, but also to get their feedback, because really we want Ignace to be excited and proud of this building, as much as we are,” says Ponka.

“We want to make sure they see themselves reflected, and we’ve already incorporated a lot of previous ideas we’ve gotten over the past couple of years in these drawings.”

Ponka adds that the building will be used for a couple of different purposes.

“We’re committed to move our entire operations to the Ignace area, so we need a place for staffers like me to work. But the other half is for the public. Places like our Learn More center in Ignace, will be transferred to that space, where people can learn more about Deep Geological Repositories, and responsible nuclear waste management.”

The NWMO says the building will be an architectural gem and the Centre of Expertise will be a tourist attraction and a hub for economic development in the area.

The specific location of the Centre of Expertise is expected to be announced later this year, with construction beginning in 2026.

The official grand opening is scheduled for 2028.

(Photos provided by the Nuclear Waste Management Organization)