The city is looking to update its heritage plan for the first time in 17 years to include natural and cultural areas. “Heritage has become much larger about how we connect more broadly with communities, document heritage, access to heritage and how all Edmontonians participate in being part of Edmonton’s history,” said David Ridley, director of the Edmonton Heritage Council. Four pillars of the new heritage plan are Indigenous, community, and cultural heritage, as well as the existing building heritage. One example is the Strathcona Rail Garden, which was added to the inventory in December, can now pursue full historical resource designation. Serving as a community gathering place since the 1960s, the garden is an example of community heritage that could soon benefit from the city’s stewardship. Ridley says the new heritage plan will provide opportunities for Edmonton’s African, Caribbean and South American communities – many having immigrated in the 1970s – to participate and contribute. “This expansion will mean that we’ll see new and creative ways for Edmonton and its communities to participate in this,” said Ridley. “We already support that work, but now we’re seeing it in alignment with the heritage strategy.” Although funding for preserving items on the city’s historic inventory is often limited, heritage advocates say designation can bring attention to their significance, triggering further public awareness and interaction with Edmonton’s history. The city’s urban planning committee heard the report, which saw three phases of public engagement, from administration Tuesday. With files from CTV News Edmonton’s Jeremy Thompson
