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Work should begin within two weeks on the National Holocaust Monument, the largest and most complex new monument in Ottawa since the National War Memorial in 1939.

Earlier this month, the National Capital Commission awarded a $7.4-million contract for the monument’s construction to the UCC Group Inc., whose copyrighted motto is “Builders of Dreamscapes.”

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An earlier attempt to tender the contract had to be abandoned after all the bids came in at least 60 per cent over the $8.95-million budget. That prompted design changes last summer aimed at reducing the costs.

The tendering problems delayed construction of the monument, to be built near the Canadian War Museum at Booth and Wellington streets, for a year. It is now expected to be completed in the spring of 2017.

The large monument, designed by architect Daniel Libeskind, resembles a stylized Star of David when viewed from above.

It consists of six concrete and metal triangular walls displaying large landscape photos by photographer Edward Burtynsky, enclosing a central area and contemplation space featuring an eternal flame.

The Department of Canadian Heritage, which is responsible for monuments in the capital, is expected to announce details of a dedication ceremony in the coming weeks.

dbutler@postmedia.com

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