Under the Ontario Heritage Act, municipalities can establish Municipal Heritage Committees to advise council on identifying, protecting and promoting cultural heritage resources that make our communities unique places to live. The fact that so much of Ontario’s rich heritage has been conserved is a testament to the good advice and hard work of Municipal Heritage Committees.
Establishing a Municipal Heritage Committee is often described as a municipality’s first and most important step in engaging its community in heritage conservation. Committee members build strong relationships with property owners to encourage good stewardship of heritage resources. They facilitate the exchange of ideas and expertise that contribute to the economic and cultural development of cities, towns, villages, neighbourhoods and landscapes across the province. They also bring passion and dedication to finding solutions towards heritage conservation. Municipal Heritage Committees involve their communities in conserving cultural heritage resources that inspire current and future generations.
The 2005 amendments to the Ontario Heritage Act provide stronger protection for our cultural heritage, and a broader, more important role for Municipal Heritage Committees. Consequently, these committees are now even more crucial to municipal decision-making. For further information on Heritage in Ontario visit the Ministry of Heritage, Sport, Tourism and Culture.
Designated Properties |
Frequently Asked Questions and Answers Regarding Designation of a Property |
Municipal Heritage Committee |
About the Committee The Municipal Heritage Committee advises Dutton Dunwich’s Municipal Council on heritage matters, including the designation of properties and landscapes under the Ontario Heritage Act. It also compiles a list of architecturally interesting properties for inclusion on the municipal heritage register. The Committee consists of six community volunteers, a municipal Councillor, Planner and Executive Assistant. It meets monthly and researches properties of interest, bringing them to the attention of staff and Council. One of the Municipality's Official Plan's objectives is "to protect and enhance the cultural and natural heritage resources of the municipality." The Municipal Heritage Committee's Mission Statement supports the Official Plan to "protect, promote and provide education and interpretation of Dutton Dunwich’s cultural heritage assets." Planning for the future of a strong, vibrant community requires knowledge of the past and an understanding of what we value in the present |
Municipal Heritage Registry |
The Municipality’s Heritage Register is a list of properties in the Municipality of Dutton Dunwich that have been identified as having cultural heritage value. This list also includes properties which have been proposed to be designated under the Ontario Heritage Act. |
Heritage Sites |
In addition to many heritage homes, Dutton Dunwich is home to several historical hamlets, vistas and cemeteries. Hamlets:
Cemeteries - Map
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Other Great Resources |
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