Heritage Properties

Locations of heritage designated properties in the City of Cambridge. Designation is the means by which a community can protect is cultural heritage resources. The Ontario Heritage Act 1990 gives each municipal council the responsibility to protect those buildings which are of provincial or local historical significance; or of architectural importance as an example of a particular building type, style or period or as the work of a local architect or builder of note. The landscape may also be of heritage value, if it is an example of natural beauty. Designation is registered on the title of the property and does not restrict the sale of the property, or normally affect its resale value. Designation continues to be in effect when a property changes hands. Designation protects the property from unsympathetic alterations, which may decrease its historic, architectural or aesthetic value. Designation can also prevent demolition, since the owner must apply to Council for a demolition permit. This gives the community and Council time to find an alternative to demolition, acceptable to the community and the owner. Either a new owner, who will preserve the building may be found, or the original owner may be persuaded to retain it. In most cases a compromise solution can be reached and the community is able to retain its history in the preservation of another heritage building.