Garden District Heritage Conservation District Study Community Consultation Meeting Ryerson International Living & Learning Centre 7:30 9:00 pm April 29 th, 2014
Presentation Overview Presentation of project background Presentation of Phase 1 - HCD Study findings. Wrap-up and next steps. Question and answer period.
Project Background Began as part of an exercise undertaken by City of Toronto Preservation Services staff in 2012 to identify priority areas for study as potential HCDs. The Garden District was one of the areas selected by staff through this exercise and later approval by Council.
Study area boundaries
What is a Heritage Conservation District? A defined area of heritage significance and character that is subject to a municipal by-law under Part V of the Ontario Heritage Act. The creation of an HCD helps to manage change and conserve heritage resources in the area. HCDs are established in two phases: 1) The study of the area, involving research and fieldwork, and if approved; 2) The preparation of the HCD Plan and Guidelines document. We are currently nearing the end of Phase 1.
Phase 1 Work Plan Summary Meet with community to discuss project and obtain feedback. (complete) Complete historic research. (complete) Complete fieldwork (building and landscape survey). (complete) Held focus group workshop to discuss boundary (complete) Present findings in a draft HCD Study. (complete) Present draft HCD Study to community to obtain feedback on findings of first phase. (today) Prepare final draft of HCD Study and present to City of Toronto Preservation Board. (May-June)
Report Components Research focused on four main components: Historical settlement and context Built heritage character Streetscape and landscape survey Policy review (various planning policies)
Results of Work to Date: Historic Research Park Lots owned by the Jarvis Family and the Allan Family were subdivided in the mid 19 th century to create the street grid layout visible today. This subdivision created a new, fashionable district with numerous homes constructed by the 1880s.
Results of Work to Date: Fieldwork and Inventory
Study area resources The study area contains a variety of resources, including: Streetscapes Landscapes Public Realm Residential properties Commercial Properties Social/institutional properties
Phase 1 Findings The majority of the study area contains significant heritage resources and has merit in establishing an HCD. Concluded that all requirements of the Ontario Heritage Act met: Framework of structuring elements Concentration of heritage resources Visual coherence of study area Distinctive character.
Phase 1 Findings The study area fits the description of two typologies: a designed district and an evolved dynamic (evolving) district. The design elements are still evident in the street grid pattern, laneways and Allan Gardens, as well as the residential setback pattern, heights and forms established in the 19 th century. These elements give the study area a distinctive character.
Phase 1 Findings The study area can also be classified as an evolved dynamic (evolving) district, as it continues to grow and change in its continued use. While design elements of the original subdivision are still evident, it is clear that the study area has changed considerably since that time, with a mix of uses, building types, forms and styles.
Land Uses
Building Heights
Cultural Heritage Significance The study area has design or physical value because of the historic street grid, lot and lane patterns and the collection of 19 th and early 20 th century historic building styles The study area has historical or associative value because of its association with aboriginal peoples, and the Jarvis and Allan families who subdivided the area. The study area has contextual value because of the character defined by the streetscape and built form typologies that are interrelated by the mid 19 th century subdivision design. While the area has changed and evolved over time, there is still discernible authenticity and integrity of the resources.
Proposed HCD Boundary
Conclusions The study area merits consideration for a heritage conservation district The second phase of the HCD process - the preparation of a Heritage Conservation District Plan - should proceed
Next Steps Public comment period for 10 days. Feedback forms available tonight. Comments will be considered by study team in finalizing HCD Study. Report expected to be finalized and brought to Preservation Board in June. HCD Study will be available on City s website for review. If directed, MHBC will prepare the draft HCD Plan and Guidelines for review and comment.
Contact for Information Lauren Archer Preservation Officer Heritage Preservation Services City of Toronto 17 th Floor, East Tower, City Hall 100 Queen Street West Toronto ON M5H 2N2 T: 416-392-2653 E: larcher@toronto.ca Thank you.
Comments / Questions?