“Did you know Burnaby has been actively preserving its heritage for over 50 years?” That’s right. We are standing before the City of Burnaby Heritage Site. It’s a testament to the city’s commitment to its past.
The story of heritage preservation in Burnaby began in 1965. It started with the Ceperley Mansion. Today, we know it as the Burnaby Art Gallery. In 1971, Heritage Village opened. Now called Burnaby Village Museum.
Burnaby’s Heritage Planning Program for private properties began in 1977. The Joseph and Jane Wintemute House was the first protected building. It was built in 1891 and is located at 7640 Berkley Dr.
The Community Heritage Commission formed in 1988. Since then, it has protected over 50 heritage buildings. It has also completed many award-winning projects. These projects enhance and commemorate Burnaby’s historic landmarks. They also celebrate its unique history.
Burnaby’s Official Community Plan recognized the Heritage Planning Program in 1996. The goal was to increase awareness. It also aimed to conserve the city’s unique heritage. This includes natural, cultural, archaeological, and built heritage.
The Community Heritage Commission guides the Heritage Planning Program. It initiates civic programs. These programs support heritage conservation. The City’s heritage planner and staff collaborate. They are from Burnaby Village Museum and the City Archives. They advance heritage conservation efforts.
The city offers incentives to protect heritage buildings. This is done through the Heritage Planning Program. The Planning and Building Department monitors heritage sites. This ensures compliance with city bylaws. It also ensures compliance with Heritage Revitalization Agreements. Properties in the heritage inventory qualify for incentive programs.
A heritage building doesn’t have to be very old to be listed. The oldest protected building is the 1891 Wintemute House. The newest is the 1965 Baldwin House. Arthur Erickson designed it. It is a modern masterpiece.
Burnaby has used a heritage resource inventory since 1989. This tracks significant heritage buildings. These buildings may be public or privately owned. They may not be protected by bylaws.
Over 50 heritage resources are protected by council. This protection comes through heritage designation bylaws. It also comes through Heritage Revitalization Agreements and covenants. These resources are listed on the Canadian Register of Historic Places.
The City offers incentives to owners. This secures the long-term protection of heritage buildings. Property owners can enter into a Heritage Revitalization Agreement. This allows access to incentives. In exchange, they agree to heritage designation. This may involve relaxing zoning and subdivision bylaws.
The City publishes books and articles about heritage issues. These publications highlight sites of significance. Heritage Burnaby gives users access to the City’s online heritage resources.
Burnaby’s Civic Heritage Policy promotes heritage conservation. This is done through stewardship of City-owned properties. Especially those in Deer Lake Park.
Burnaby also features an urban farming district in the Big Bend neighborhood. You can take a self-guided tour. Experience a variety of plants and vegetables. Visit vendors and nurseries. It’s a must-see for those who enjoy farm-fresh products.
So, as we stand here at the City of Burnaby Heritage Site, remember that it is more than just a place. It is a symbol of Burnaby’s dedication to preserving its unique story. A story that continues to unfold.