National Capital Commission
Canada
There are many NCC-designated heritage buildings in the Capital region (13 designated as “classified” by the Federal Heritage Buildings Review Office (FHBRO) and 50 “recognized”). Clearly, the NCC has an important role to play in protecting those properties and managing them as part of the Canadian legacy.

The NCC applies the Federal Heritage Buildings Policy to all properties that it owns or manages and has identified as having national heritage value or potential. In fact, there are other buildings and ruins in the region that have some historical significance, even if they have not been recognized by the FHBRO (for example, the Log Farm and Lime Kiln in the Greenbelt, Major’s Hill Park, or the Abbey Ruins at Mackenzie King Estate). We make sure that these are protected, displayed and interpreted as well.

Source: NCC Built Heritage Policy

Management Principles

Interdisciplinary approach
We pursue our heritage goals through a variety of partnerships with experts and other levels of government, and share our records and the results of research with other institutions and the public.

Research
This is the basic principle of heritage protection — that before acting, it is necessary to understand the asset completely, including its character and heritage significance. Research and documentation are built into the process of heritage management at the NCC.

Respect
The craftsmanship of the past is virtually irreplaceable and, once lost, it is gone forever. Thus, we favour a policy of minimum intervention. We prefer prevention to repair, and we prefer repair to replacement. We respect original materials. New construction, where necessary, is designed to harmonize with (not copy) the original building.

Expertise
In addition to NCC professionals and experts, the Advisory Committee on Planning, Design and Realty also includes design professionals who contribute knowledge and expertise to the protection process.

Public consultation
Mostly through our planning and environmental assessment processes, we consult with the public on major projects or proposals that relate to heritage preservation.

Appropriate use
We are dedicated to the principle of continued use. However, we are aware that inappropriate use could damage or even destroy heritage elements.

Related Links

 
Modified: Monday December 5, 2005
Security and Privacy   Important Notices and Disclaimers