Canada’s newly appointed Prime Minister, Mark Carney, will be moving into Rideau Cottage instead of the traditional official residence at 24 Sussex Drive. The decision comes as 24 Sussex remains closed due to serious health and safety hazards.
The historic residence has long been in a state of disrepair, with ongoing issues including asbestos, lead contamination, and rodent infestations. Due to the severity of the situation, the property was officially shut down, and restoration work has been underway to address the hazardous conditions.
Rideau Cottage, located within the grounds of Rideau Hall, has served as the temporary home for the Prime Minister since 2015, offering a secure and livable alternative. The cottage provides a modest yet functional environment while long-term plans for 24 Sussex are still under consideration.
As Carney begins his term, questions remain over whether 24 Sussex will be fully restored, demolished, or replaced. For now, Rideau Cottage will continue to serve as the official residence, ensuring the Prime Minister can operate from a safe and stable home base.