City Conversations: The Value and Challenges of Preserving our Architectural Heritage

Throughout Vancouver, older homes are being replaced with new ones, changing the character of neighbourhoods and overwhelming the City’s longstanding policy to encourage preservation of our architectural heritage.

Later this month the City will be holding open houses to gain public feedback as part of the Heritage Conservation Program updating process. During this process a key challenge will be dealing with the competing values of community members who want to protect these buildings and building owners who would prefer to make a profit by demolishing them.

John Atkin, civic historian, noted author, and architectural and historical tour leader, will discuss the why and how of preserving our heritage. Another speaker will address the pressures of the real estate market, rights of property owners, existing zoning and regulations.

Then it’s your turn to ask questions, offer opinions and observations. It’s bound to be a lively discussion! Bring your lunch at this FREE event.