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Design Principles:

1. Balance Heritage Preservation & New Development: The preservation of heritage assets within existing communities is a Smart Growth priority and supports the objectives for compact built form and enhancing community distinctiveness. Development sites situated adjacent to existing historic areas have general market appeal and should be developed as a catalyst for broad based urban renewal.

2. Character Sensitive: Respect the ‘original’ historic character and preserve original fabric where appropriate. Contemporary additions should also be considered.

3. Conservation: The alteration of any historical architectural feature or building should be resisted. The process and mechanisms for the conservation and restoration of heritage buildings should be prioritized.

4. Maximize Mixed Use & Reuse: Mixed-use development provides live/work opportunities, and contributes to vital, attractive neighbourhood character. Adaptive reuse should be considered as part of the conservation and restoration of heritage buildings.

Source: Regional Municipality of Niagara, Model Urban Design Guidelines, 2005