Downtown Heritage Study block of properties from Lakeshore Road to Elgin Street determined to meet the definition of a cultural heritage landscape

By Gazette Staff

February 12, 2026

BURLINGTON, ON

Chloe Richer, Senior Heritage Planner

Chloe Richer, Senior Heritage Planner reported to Council that astudy and plan for the Lakeshore Road to Elgin Street art of the city will build on the detailed research completed during the recent “Downtown Heritage Study and Engagement Program.

The yearlong Downtown Heritage Study and Engagement Program evaluated six areas to determine if they met the definition of a “cultural heritage landscape” as well as eight individual properties for potential heritage
designation under Part IV of the OHA. After detailed research, site visits, public consultations, and spatial analysis were completed, five of the six areas were determined not to be cultural heritage landscapes. The Burlington Avenue and Lakeshore Road grouping, which consisted of the block of properties from Lakeshore Road to Elgin Street, was determined to meet the definition of a CHL.

While researching the area, heritage consultants ASI found that the section of Burlington Avenue between Elgin and Ontario Streets, as well as some properties on Ontario Street, had the same historical attributes as the block immediately south, and has recommended that both blocks be studied further for their potential as a heritage conservation district.

This Burlington Avenue-Ontario Street HCD Study will assess a study area comprising of 33 properties, to evaluate it for potential heritage designation under the Ontario Heritage Act and determine if the area qualifies as an Heritage Cultural District.