Quote:
Originally Posted by mrjanejacobs
Copes - you're describing the most extreme cases of something being deemed 'heritage'. If it's historical (old) and it contributes to the culture, place, identity of a group, organization, individual or era, then it's of heritage value. St.John's is an extremely historic city - it used to be one of the biggest City's in Canada and a huge economic hub. We need to protect every last bit of 'old'/historical/heritage buildings we have. We have already lost too much of it.
Why demolish them when there are lots of empty lots on all sides? Why are we trying to tear down 2 of the only 3 heritage buildings in the downtown west-end when there's an abundance of surface-parking space and old, non-heritage buildings?
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My thoughts are that these buildings do not contribute to the culture, place, identity, etc. of the area. The area, by and large, is an abandoned neighborhood. If it was, say, the supreme court, or the George Street Church, I would have a serious issue with taking those down. But I personally don't think that these buildings are nearly as significant, at least, to the majority. Perhaps I don't have as much of an appreciation for heritage as some, but I do not feel that we should restrict ourselves from knocking down something old if there isn't an active part of many people's lives. From what I can tell, these buildings do not fall into MY definition of worthy heritage, and so I'm not a huge proponent of keeping them around.
As to the number of available lots downtown, I assure you that space is indeed an issue. We also want to keep in mind that we want to keep everything together... create our own CBD in the west-end. The reason I am so big on the west-end, is that for the most part the buildings are abandoned, or contribute to the general decay of the neighbourhood because of their state of disrepair. I include the Harbour Light and Salvation Army buildings in this description. I, personally, don't consider those buildings to be any sort of neighbourhood catalyst worth preserving; that honor goes to the George Street Church, which I would fight tooth and nail to keep.
I worry sometimes that people in St. John's are too quick to deem something heritage, and that holds us back (not calling you out specifically in this instance, I am just speaking in general terms now). I feel that this has slowed downtown development, and perhaps made me less than inviting to the notion of "heritage" buildings. Could be the case.
Sorry if that was a rambling answer. I'm falling asleep here, and I do not deem this post up to my usual standard. If I have been unclear or rambling I will clarify in the morning. I had thoughts... but I question if I expressed them well.
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