A significant amount of heritage properties in Cobourg are designated under Part V of the Ontario Heritage Act and are sometimes commonly referred to as 'Heritage District Properties'.
Cobourg has four individual heritage districts that represent over 500 properties. These districts are:
West District; [map]
George Street District [map]
East District; [map]
Commercial Core District. [map]
Each of the four districts were designated because they have a unique character and identity. In order to maintain this character and identity, proposed alterations and new building must meet the requirements of the Heritage District Guidelines and other supporting documents including the Cobourg Urban Design Guidelines and Parks Canada's Standards and Guidelines which can be found through the town's website or in the Town's Planning Department.
Changes will occur in heritage conservation districts. They are living parts of our community, not museum sites. The purpose of district designation is to guide change so that it contributes to the area's unique character. The key objectives are:
· To preserve heritage buildings- these features are fragile gifts from past generations. They are not a renewable resource. Once lost, they are gone forever.
· To preserve original features - it is important to retain original or early building fabric such as windows, wall claddings and architectural elements.
Heritage Principles Simplified:
- It is better to maintain than to repair
- It is better to repair than to restore
- It is better to restore than replace
Town staff is currently compiling a photo inventory of restored heritage properties.
Ensure new construction is complementary and respectful - this can range from an addition to a heritage building to a new building in the district. There are many examples of excellent additions and new infill construction in our heritage districts.
Protect features in the public realm that make the area unique - this includes streetscapes, lot patterns and vegetation.
If you are contemplating alterations to your existing designated property or proposing new development within a heritage district, review the Heritage District Guidelines and other useful information including the Cobourg Urban Design Guidelines and Parks Canada's Standards and Guidelines . Please contact the Planning Department for pre-consultation before you finalize any details of your proposed work. This will ensure your work will meet requirements of the Heritage District Guidelines .
