Historic Places Initiative

Introduction

The Historic Places Initiative is a collaboration involving all levels of government - local, provincial, territorial and federal. Together, we have created the tools to enable Canadians to learn about, value, enjoy and conserve our country's historic places.

The tools are:

• The Canadian Register of Historic Places - an online, public resource
• The Standards and Guidelines for the Conservation of Historic Places in Canada - a practical guide to help with conservation decision-making
• The Commercial Heritage Properties Incentive Fund - a federal funding program to support the adaptive reuse of Canada's commercial properties

Additionally, other aspects of the Initiative are currently under development:

• Proposed federal heritage legislation
• Aboriginal engagement programs
  

What is the purpose of the Initiative?

To build Canada's culture of heritage conservation by:

• Providing the tools and information for citizens to take action and conserve the historic places that they value;
  
• Creating an online, public resource to share information about the value and history of Canada's historic places;
  
• Providing guidance for decision-making when planning for, intervening in and using historic places; and
  
• Supporting the continued use of historic places so that they remain an integral part of our dynamic towns and cities.

Why is it necessary?

• There has been a dramatic deterioration of Canada’s built heritage over the past 30 years.
  
• Canada has lacked a pan-Canadian approach to heritage conservation.
  
• Canada has fallen short with regards to heritage conservation when compared to other G8 countries.
  
• Heritage conservation complements other issues, such as urban, sustainable and economic development, with which governments are currently dealing.

How has the Initiative taken shape?

• Local, provincial, territorial, and federal governments have worked and are working together.
  
• Heritage experts and various heritage stakeholders across Canada have provided valuable, forward-looking advice.
  
• Provincial, territorial and federal governments have created the Canadian Register of Historic Places and the Standards and Guidelines for the Conservation of Historic Places in Canada
  
• The Government of Canada has implemented a funding program, the Commercial Heritage Properties Incentive Fund, to support the adaptive reuse of commercial properties.