The Ottawa Senators could be on the move downtown. The group that operates the team is looking at an opportunity to build a new arena near the Canadian War Museum on LeBreton Flats.

‘I think it's a great idea to have stadium downtown’ says Ottawa resident Chris Boodram, ‘so people can get to it by transit'

‘That makes a lot of sense to me,’ adds resident Dave Ledoux, ‘Right now, it's a big drive out to the middle of nowhere.’

The group that operates the Senators thinks so too.  It is actively considering an opportunity to re-develop several acres of land by the War Museum.  The National Capital Commission, which owns the land, is calling for proposals.

In a statement, the Senators' Sports and Entertainment said, "We have been approached by numerous well established private sector companies and community organizations who have expressed a strong desire to partner with us on developing a world-class proposal for this site."

Jim Durrell was the President of the Ottawa Senators in the early 90's and Ottawa's mayor before that. He says LeBreton Flats was always top choice but way too expensive back then. 

‘To me, it makes sense,’ says Durrell. ‘Had we been able to do it in the 90's we would have but it wasn't financially viable.’

Durrell says most arenas and entertainment centres have a life span of about 30 or 40 years.  The Canadian Tire Centre opened in 1996.

‘I think what the hockey club is doing is at the right time,’ adds Durrell, ‘looking 10 years ahead and saying this is something to consider and if we do decide, now is the time.’

For those businesses that have sprung up around the arena, though, the loss of the Senators in the west end of Ottawa could be devastating. Richard Valente owns Fratelli on Terry Fox Drive.

‘It could be a reality (that the Senators are moving from Kanata) and as a business owner, I would be shocked and completely saddened to see them go. It would have a huge impact on all businesses out here, not just on restaurants.’

Ottawa Senators defenceman Marc Methot decided to skate carefully around this issue.

'I’m almost scared to give my opinion,’ said Methot today after practice, ‘because I will have 50% of the fans all over me, especially those who live in Kanata.’

The minister responsible for the NCC, John Baird, wouldn’t wade in either.

‘If I were to pronounce saying I love this or I don’t love that, a lot of people are putting work and energy into it.  (Proposals will continue until) January so let's not rush. Let's let this independent process get going and have something really exciting.’

The lunchtime crowd at the Prescott, on the other hand, always has an opinion on hockey.

‘I think they should stay where they are because a lot of businesses will be affected in Kanata,’ says Russ Belaire.

‘I think it's fantastic idea, says Cory Leiper, ‘I live in Stittsville. I appreciate the building is out in Stittsville but everybody would be better served if it’s downtown.’

‘I think it’s a wonderful idea,’ adds Terry Gamble, ‘I hope they go ahead and do it.’

 The Senators organization says it will decide in the coming weeks whether it will submit a proposal.  It has until January 7th when the NCC’s application process closes.