Province Begins Heritage Property Act Review

The province is seeking public advice and opinions during a review of the Heritage Property Act. The review is one of the recommendations in government's heritage strategy -- A Treasured Past, A Precious Future.

The Department of Tourism, Culture and Heritage has hired Hardy Stevenson and Associates Limited of Toronto to conduct public meetings and focus groups. A final report will be submitted to government later this fall.

"We want to make the review process as inclusive and balanced as possible so that our decision-making benefits from the advice and experience of heritage property owners, developers, heritage-related organizations, and the public," said Percy Paris, Minister of Tourism, Culture and Heritage.

"Nova Scotia's heritage properties are a valuable resource that can help make life better for families in every part of the province. By preserving heritage they support lief-long learning and contribute to vibrant communities."

The public meetings will take place:

• Wednesday, Sept. 29, Sydney, Cape Breton Centre for Craft and Design, 322 Charlotte St., 7 p.m. to 10 p.m.
• Monday, Oct. 4, Dartmouth, Holiday Inn Harbourview, Alderney and Sullivan Ballrooms, 101 Wyse Rd., 7 p.m. to 10 p.m.
• Wednesday, Oct. 6, Yarmouth, Marion Hall (next to St. Ambrose Cathedral), 65 Green St., 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. French-language services will be available.

Discussion topics at the public meetings will include the role of government in protecting heritage resources and areas of the act that may require updating. In addition, nine focus groups will be held with heritage property groups.

People can also participate by completing an online survey, from Sept. 27 to Oct. 12, at http://gov.ns.ca/tch/ and clicking the link under What's New.

Copies of the document and survey can also be obtained at municipal offices across the province. More information is also available by calling 1-877-267-7794 ext. 225 or e-mailing <NSHPAR@hardystevenson.com.>

A summary report of comments from stakeholders and the public will be made available after the consultation process.