The Rideau Canal and the Aberdeen Pavilion: the Jewels of Lansdowne Park Conserving heritage values and enhancing visitor experience opportunities
Presentation to the design team finalists for the Urban Park Design Competition Lansdowne Park February 24, 2010 Don Marrin, Field Unit Superintendent Pamela Buell, Manager External Relations Parks Canada, Eastern Ontario
Outline Introduction to the Parks Canada Agency The Rideau Canal National Historic Site of Canada and World Heritage Site The Aberdeen Pavilion National Historic Site of Canada Key Values Parks Canada s Top Priorities for the Redevelopment of Lansdowne Urban Park
The Parks Canada Agency Agency of the Government of Canada responsible for managing national parks, national historic sites and national marine conservation areas Our Mandate To commemorate, protect and present places which are significant examples of Canada's cultural and natural heritage in ways that encourage public understanding, appreciation and enjoyment of this heritage, while ensuring long-term ecological and commemorative integrity
The Parks Canada Agency Our Vision Canada s treasured natural and historic places will be a living legacy, connecting hearts and minds to a stronger, deeper understanding of the very essence of Canada
The Parks Canada Agency Manages 167 National Historic Sites 42 National Parks 3 National Marine Conservation Areas Provides support to the family of over 900 National Historic Sites
The Rideau Canal National Historic Site of Canada Designated a National Historic Site in 1925 construction of the canal system survival of a high number of original canal structures including locks, blockhouses, dams, weirs and original lockmasters houses plus the integrity of most lockstations
The Rideau Canal World Heritage Site Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2007 the best preserved example of a slackwater canal in North America remains operational along its original line with most of its original structures intact represents a significant stage in human history
The Aberdeen Pavilion National Historic Site of Canada Designated in 1983 The only large-scale exhibition building in Canada surviving from the 19 th century Cost-share Agreement between Parks Canada and the City of Ottawa Credit: William James Topley/Library and Archives Canada/PA-009125
Key Values Integrity (wholeness, intactness, and protection) and authenticity of the canal and its tangible and intangible attributes
Key Values The scenic park-like environment of this urban setting
Key Values Sustainability of the natural environment to protect water quality and overall ecosystem health
Key Values Buffer Zone: A 30m setback to protect the integrity and authenticity of the inscribed property
Key Values Public Understanding and Appreciation: Commitment to enhance the public experience, enjoyment and appreciation of the Rideau Canal NHS and WHS and Aberdeen Pavilion NHS
Key Values Providing opportunities for real and inspiring experiences.
Parks Canada s Top Priorities for the Redevelopment of Lansdowne Park 1. Protect the commemorative integrity and outstanding universal value of the National Historic Sites and the World Heritage Site, including: The form and shape of the Rideau Canal channel, the visual, park-like setting and the 30m buffer zone The architecture, use and views of the Aberdeen Pavilion
2. Enhance opportunities for visitor experience and public appreciation of the Rideau Canal and Aberdeen Pavilion
3. Ensure sustainable development protect water quality and ecosystem of the canal through state-of-the art stormwater management