Reports confirm historic value of properties in Village Square

Burlington's Village SquareHeritage Burlington has completed a review of the three historic properties in Village Square, and concluded that they all have historic value worthy of heritage designation.

The properties are

  • 416 Pearl Street “The Inglehart House – Mitchell Dairy”
  • 415/417 Elizabeth Street “The Stinson –Morrine House”
  • 423 Elizabeth Street “The Bastedo – Redmond – John Kenter House

Though formal designation was not recommended at this time, HB recommended the properties remain on the the Municipal Register of Cultural Heritage Resources, and that Heritage Burlington and city staff continue to work with both the current and any future owners to determine how these buildings can be preserved in any new development.

Council accepted the recommendation and further  directed city staff to review Village Square as a whole to  determine its potential as a cultural heritage landmark within Burlington.

The Village Square property was developed in the late 1970s and opened in 1977 in the style of a historic town square. The development blended existing heritage buildings with new period-style architectural buildings, containing a mix of commercial, specialty retail, restaurant and cultural uses.

Village Square has recently been listed for sale. The review of the potential heritage value of the three properties  was conducted to assist in evaluating any future development proposals.

Read the reports here, Item 8.

My Take:  Village Square is a unique historic pocket in the downtown that is worth preserving, especially as the blocks around it are developed with modern buildings. I have and continue to meet with the current owners and prospective purchasers to convey the community’s interest in preserving Village Square, and share the results of the heritage studies.

  • Nancy

    Why not use the ten million dollars that the city wants to spend buying up the properties on the Beachway to purchase Village Square and make it into a community centre, farmer’s market and park?