Old Mill Heritage Conservation District Development

On June 23, 2020, Council initiated a Heritage Conservation District Study for the Old Mill neighbourhood in Lindsay. This page is intended to provide information about the ongoing study process and for public engagement and feedback throughout the study.

Heritage Conservation Districts (HCDs) are areas protected by a by-law passed under Part V of the Ontario Heritage Act. HCDs are usually groups of buildings or structures, such as neighbourhoods, which have a unique historic character. District designations are put in place to help conserve and enhance historic areas, guide future development so that it has a positive impact on local areas, and help maintain a sense of place and pride in our unique neighbourhoods and communities in Kawartha Lakes.

There are two steps required to designate an HCD in Ontario:

1. The first is a heritage conservation district study which examines the history of the area and its buildings and structures. The study makes recommendations as to whether the area should be designated as a district and what its boundaries should be. The study usually takes about a year from the time it is initiated by Council.
2. If the study recommends designating the area as a district, the second step is a heritage conservation district plan. The plan is developed, in consultation with the local community, and includes design guidelines, policies for growth and development, and recommendations about heritage permits.

The Old Mill area is currently undergoing the study phase.