Banff gives residents choice on heritage registry

January 8, 2002
Source: CBC Calgary
Original story - link verified on January 8, 2002

Banff's town council is sending out letters this week, telling people they can voluntarily take their property off the controversial heritage registry. A lawyer, speaking on behalf of some of the town's residents, says people believe being on the heritage registry dramatically reduces their property values. "Whether it's true or not, it's certainly perceived in this community and by developers outside the community that being on that list will create a lot of road blocks to getting a development," says Gary Teeling, a lawyer who represents about 20 people and businesses unhappy about having their property on the list. "We had spoken to virtually all the realtors in the town of Banff and they all agreed it's harder to sell a property on the list and if a choice was being made between a property on the list and not on the list the choice would always be the property not on the list." Laurie Dowling, the chair of the Banff Heritage Corporation says there are many benefits to being on the list. Owners have access to heritage architects, as well as being eligible for plaques, awards and a spot on the heritage walking tour. Dowling says the corporation is just trying to protect the history of the town but she understands it's not for everyone.

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