Thursday 7th of November 2024

Preserving the Past: Ottawa Initiates Measures to Enhance Heritage Protections for 19th Century Water Works

Preserving Heritage: Ottawa Paves the Way for Enhanced Protections of 19th Century Water Works Complex

The City of Ottawa is poised to reinforce heritage safeguards for the venerable Ottawa Water Works complex, a 150-year-old architectural gem nestled in LeBreton Flats. City staff has proposed a plan seeking council approval to overhaul and consolidate existing heritage bylaws related to the site, aiming for a more robust and streamlined protection framework aligned with the current Ontario Heritage Act.

The recommendation, outlined in a report for the Built Heritage Committee, advocates replacing two outdated heritage bylaws governing the property with a comprehensive bylaw. The move comes as a response to the challenges faced by Heritage Planning staff while dealing with existing bylaws lacking in detail and clearly defined heritage attributes during recent development and permit applications on the site.

The Ottawa Water Works complex encompasses the Water Works Building at 10 Fleet St., a covered aqueduct, an open aqueduct with the headworks to the west, the channeled tailrace north of the pumping station, and five stone bridges crossing the aqueduct. Designed by Canadian civil engineer Thomas Keefer, the complex was constructed between 1872 and 1874, with subsequent additions by architect Edgar L. Horwood between 1888 and 1899. Employing an innovative hydraulic pumping system, the Water Works drew water from the Chaudière Falls, providing clean drinking water to the municipal system.

Despite being the last remaining 19th-century structure on LeBreton Flats, the site faces development plans, including a new central library and a potential NHL arena. The Water Works Building received its heritage designation in 1982, with a supplementary bylaw in 1995 adding remaining elements of the complex. Recognizing the outdated nature of the existing bylaws, city staff recommends replacing them with a comprehensive bylaw to align with current heritage preservation standards and provide clarity on the designation of the Ottawa Water Works Complex.

As Ottawa anticipates the future development of this historic site, the proposed measures aim to ensure the continued protection and appreciation of the Ottawa Water Works' rich heritage and architectural significance.

Next Steps in Heritage Protection: Built Heritage Committee Set to Review Ottawa Water Works Application on January 17, Full Council Vote on January 24

The future of strengthened heritage protections for the Ottawa Water Works complex at LeBreton Flats takes a crucial step forward as the Built Heritage Committee is scheduled to review the application on January 17. Pending approval, the full council will cast its vote on January 24, marking a significant milestone in the ongoing efforts to preserve and fortify the heritage status of this iconic 19th-century architectural gem.

This timeline underscores the commitment of the City of Ottawa to ensure a comprehensive and up-to-date bylaw, aligning with current heritage preservation standards, is in place for the Ottawa Water Works Complex. The proposed measures aim to provide clarity on the designation of the site and offer robust safeguards for its rich historical and architectural significance as the city navigates future developments in the LeBreton Flats area.

In conclusion, the upcoming reviews by the Built Heritage Committee on January 17 and the subsequent full council vote on January 24 represent crucial milestones in the City of Ottawa's dedication to fortifying heritage protections for the Ottawa Water Works complex. As these important decisions loom, the city reaffirms its commitment to preserving the rich historical and architectural legacy of this 19th-century landmark at LeBreton Flats. The proposed comprehensive bylaw aims to ensure that future developments in the area harmonize with the preservation standards, providing clarity on the designation and securing the enduring legacy of the Ottawa Water Works Complex for generations to come.