Deputy Mayor Kenneth Fowler, who chairs the heritage committee, explained that questions had arisen regarding the properties and the legitimacy of the impact assessments. The committee is seeking further information before making any decisions, emphasizing accuracy and thoroughness.
The impact assessments were initially presented to the heritage committee during its August 10 meeting. Both reports were prepared by LHC Heritage Planning and Consulting, a Kingston-based firm. According to the assessments, both properties have “contextual value,” contributing to the commercial core of downtown Cookstown and aligning with the Heritage Conservation District’s guidelines. However, they do not possess specific design, physical, historical, or associative value.
At 15-17 Queen St., the two structures were constructed approximately 75 years apart. The one-storey building at 15 Queen St., despite its log-style cladding, is not representative of any particular architectural style. Meanwhile, 17 Queen St., likely built between 1865 and 1870, has undergone significant modifications, rendering it a “non-contributing property.”
The proposed development plan for both 15-17 Queen St. and 7 King St. N. includes three-storey commercial structures. While taller than some existing buildings, the consultants believe they will align with the Heritage Conservation District’s guidelines, adopting a “conservative contemporary” approach.
For 7 King St. N., the development proposal calls for a three- to four-storey commercial building with seven sections. The Cookstown heritage plan encourages adaptive reuse of vacant or underutilized buildings along King Street. Although over 120 years old, 7 King St. N. lacks rare or unique qualities, reflecting typical materials and construction methods of its time. It does, however, hold historical significance as a former blacksmith shop during a period of growth in the Heritage Conservation District.
As part of the peer review, any gaps in the consultant’s analysis will be examined. The cost of the review will be invoiced to the developer, as it relates to proposed development.
The investigation continues, highlighting the town’s commitment to preserving heritage while accommodating necessary development. Stay tuned for updates on the outcome of these heritage impact assessments.
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