Heritage Advisory Committee reports record year

By Sam Normand

February 20 marks the beginning of Heritage Week in Prince Edward County, celebrating the regions history as well as achievements in heritage preservation.

This year, the Heritage advisory committee is reporting a record amount of new designations, with 12 buildings in the county declared heritage sites in 2011, including buildings such as the Royal Hotel and White Chapel.

“Heritage conservation is something this county hasn’t really focused on since amalgamation,” said Ryan Leary, senior planner and heritage staff liasion. “In the last year or so we’ve come a long way in terms of getting policies in place and starting policy initiatives that have really put heritage on the forefront. We’re just looking back on 2011 and looking at some of the recent achievements.”

Mayor of Prince Edward County Peter Mertens said that heritage conservation is important as the natural beauty and traditions of the region attracts businesses and tourists as well as instilling a sense of pride in residents.

Leary said that more designations are in the works for 2012.

“The heritage committee has a list right now of people who are interested and have been nominated for designation,” he said. “I think there’s about 20 on the list right now.”