1. The Statement of Significance (SoS)
Burnaby, British Columbia
3 June 2004

2. What is the purpose of an SoS?
Tool for raising awareness:
To explain the heritage value of the historic place to a broad audience
To identify to a broad audience what has been formally recognized and what are its character-defining elements

3. What is the purpose of an SoS? (con’t)
Management tool:
To provide guidance to property owners, planners, architects, etc. undertaking conservation work
Document serves as a test at the end of a conservation or rehabilitation project
May guide the choice of conservation treatment
(For CRHP - to help guide the preparation of CHPIF applications and the assessment of project proposals)

4. Where Does the Statement of Significance Fit In the Process?
Heritage value and character-defining elements taken into account in management of historic place
Place is identified by a community and/or government
Historical research, physical investigation undertaken; preparation of historical report
Statement of Significance developed (critical link between evaluation of place and long-term management)
Evaluation of place against set of criteria
Formal recognition of place

5. National and International Examples
Burra Charter
U.K. National Trust
Statement of Universal Value (World Heritage Sites)
Heritage Character Statement (FHBRO)

6. Format of Canadian Register of Historic Places SoS
Three sections:
Description of historic place = what was designated or formally recognized
Heritage Value = why is the historic place important
Character-defining Elements = what key elements of the place embody the heritage value and must be retained in order to preserve heritage value

7. Canadian Register of Historic Places
SoS identifies the Heritage Value and Character-Defining Elements of the historic place
Links between the SoS, the Standards and Guidelines and the certification process
Standards and Guidelines
Explains how the Heritage Value and Character-Defining Elements should be conserved
Certification process
Projects must be undertaken in accordance with the Standards and Guidelines and must conserve the Heritage Value and Character-Defining Elements of the historic place