Heritage Revitalization Agreements: Benefits

A heritage revitalization agreement (HRA) is a mutually beneficial arrangement that balances:

• Private and public interests
• Heritage conservation and development
• Liveability and densification
• Philosophy and realism

Private benefits may take the form of:

• Improved finances through a subdivision
• Increased in square footage
• Increased density through a subdivision
• Change of usage
• Relaxed zoning restrictions (e.g. parking, setbacks, etc.)
• Increased height of a building
• The increased or decreased parking area
• Changed, improved siting regulations
• Energy efficiency and sustainability
• Freedom to adapt or modernize the property to reflect one’s needs and tastes

Public benefit may take the form of:

• Longer-term protection for the property
• Restoration or rehabilitation of the property
• The extended lifecycle of the property
• Improved site condition, more attractive streetscape
• Changes to landscaping, parks or open spaces
• New historic information and documentation
• Enhanced community character with a stronger sense of place and identity

The local government’s HRA policy can support goals, such as:

• Rehabilitation of heritage districts, streets
• Civic pride in heritage properties and other resources
• Quality of life strategies; balanced and liveable neighbourhoods
• Affordable housing strategies
• Improved home rental strategies
• Mixed and expanded usages (e.g. senior or youth centre, live-work)
• Improved site-specific conditions (e.g. improved accessibility)
• Stimulated cultural tourism and other economic opportunities
• Sustainable communities

(source, source, and source)

This guide provides an overview of Heritage Revitalization Agreements through research and commentary. Application of this heritage conservation tool is not prescriptive, as it can be adapted to each situation. Local governments and regional districts wanting to implement the heritage conservation tools should seek legal counsel as required.

SPECIAL NOTE: It is intended this guide will develop through community input. If you have best practices and case studies that would benefit this guide, please contact Heritage BC.