Province to Review Heritage Property Act

Government will ask Nova Scotians how it should protect heritage properties in the next phase of the Heritage Property Act review announced today, June 4.

The review of the act is one of the recommendations in the provincial heritage strategy, A Treasured Past, A Precious Future, released in 2008.

"The Heritage Property Act is an important means of protecting Nova Scotia's built heritage and helps government keep its commitment to make life better for families in every region of Nova Scotia," said Percy Paris, Minister of Tourism, Culture and Heritage.

"The review of the act is one more way government is showing genuine leadership. It will ensure Nova Scotia is able to respond to the needs of heritage preservation while balancing the benefits of good jobs and economic growth that future development can bring to communities across the province."

Public consultations will target municipal officials, heritage property owners and developers, and heritage advocates. A consultant will conduct targeted consultations over the summer and provide government with input on potential changes to the act. A final report is due in early fall. Details about the consultations will be announced shortly.

"We are following the recommendations of the provincial heritage strategy by proceeding with a review of the Heritage Property Act," said Bill Greenlaw, executive director of heritage. "We understand that there are many perspectives related to heritage property preservation and want to make sure that all points of view are considered as the review proceeds."

The provincial heritage strategy, released in February 2008, was guided by a heritage task force, led by Voluntary Planning. The strategy's recommendations focus on policy and program development to strengthen heritage preservation in Nova Scotia and include a review of the Heritage Property Act.

More information about the heritage strategy and the review of the act can be found at www.gov.ns.ca/tch/spp .