Lunenburg, Nova Scotia, June 22, 2010--The Honourable Jim Prentice, Minister of the Environment and Minister responsible for Parks Canada, today announced that the Government of Canada will be investing in heritage conservation within the Old Town Lunenburg Historic District National Historic Site of Canada. Established in 1753 as a planned British colonial town, Lunenburg is valued for its well-preserved vernacular architecture and original rectangular grid pattern layout.
Through Parks Canada’s National Historic Sites Cost-Sharing Program, the Government of Canada will be contributing up to $8,000 to support the preparation of a conservation plan for St. Norbert’s Catholic Church, located within Old Town Lunenburg Historic District. The plan will help to ensure the preservation of the church’s architectural features which contribute to the historic appearance of the district.
“The Government of Canada has taken a leadership role in the protection and promotion of Canada’s invaluable and irreplaceable historical heritage,” said Minister Prentice. “This funding, provided through Canada’s Economic Action Plan and Parks Canada’s Cost-Sharing Program, will contribute to the preservation of Old Town Lunenburg’s heritage values and help to ensure that Lunenburg’s past will serve as a foundation for its future.”
“St. Norbert's Church is a wonderful example of Georgian architecture and is an important part of historic Lunenburg,” said Mr. Ted Kelly, Chair of St. Norbert’s Council. “This funding will support the preparation of a conservation plan that will help to ensure its preservation for future generations.”
Parks Canada’s Cost-Sharing Program, with a budget of $20 million provided in part by Canada’s Economic Action Plan, reflects the government’s desire to support job creation by providing funding for conservation of national historic sites.
Information:
Frédéric Baril
Press Secretary
Office of the Minister of the Environment
819-997-1441
Media Relations
Parks Canada
819-994-3023
Backgrounder associated with this News Release.
Parks Canada’s National Historic Sites Cost-Sharing Program
