Spotlight on Heritage
North End Sydney Becomes Nova Scotia’s 2nd Largest Heritage Conservation District
Nova Scotia’s newest Heritage Conservation District, approved in August 2008, becomes the second largest district in the province. The new district represents Sydney’s oldest neighbourhood, with buildings dating back to 1785.
The Cape Breton Regional Municipality began the planning process for the district’s designation four years ago, eyeing a seven-block area featuring nearly 100 buildings that date back more than a century. Eight buildings in the district were built between 1785 and 1802.
Featured in the new Heritage Conservation District are numerous structures of historical significance, including:
- Sydney’s oldest residence, Cossit House on Charlotte Street, part of the Nova Scotia Museum, the family of 27 provincial museums;
- St. Patrick’s Catholic Church, the oldest church in Cape Breton;
- Kennedy House, built in 1786, valued for its association with the early development of Sydney;
- Jost House, also built in 1786. Recognized for its blend of Neo-classical and Late Victorian Plain styles and its associations with an important Sydney merchant, Thomas Jost, Jost House is now a community museum.
What is a Heritage Conservation District?
A Heritage Conservation District, designated by municipalities, is an area of heritage value that is protected by municipally determined bylaws, which can vary from district to district. For instance, the bylaw in North End Sydney allows for blending of old and new properties, encourages renovation and allows for new development.
Incentives for municipalities and individuals to establish Heritage Conservation Districts include provincially-funded heritage grants and tax rebates for property owners within the district. Some municipalities also offer financial incentives. Municipalities look to the Heritage Conservation District designation because it can contribute to improved economic or tourism development potential, increased public investment and the economic revitalization of neighbourhoods.
In addition to North End Sydney, there are five other Heritage Conservation Districts in Nova Scotia, located in Maitland, Grand Pré, Yarmouth, Truro and Lunenburg.
To learn more: