Heritage at forefront of Old Town plan

Re: “139-room hotel might replace two Victoria heritage buildings,” Nov. 22

I wish to provide clarity with regard to Chard Development’s proposed development along the 1300 block of Broad Street. The proposed 139-room hotel will not “replace two Victoria heritage buildings.”

On the contrary, this development will improve and celebrate the historically significant elements of both the Duck’s Building and the Canada Hotel, bringing economic and employment benefits, neighbourhood vitality, an increased tax base and long-term sustainability through construction that meets the incoming seismic and life-safety standards and adheres to the City of Victoria’s Old Town Design Guidelines.

With full heritage conservation plans in place, both buildings will remain on Victoria’s Heritage Register and would obtain heritage designations.

From the very inception of this proposed development, heritage rehabilitation has remained at the forefront of the project objectives. Extensive work has been done with renowned heritage consultant Don Luxton, and with local structural engineers to find a way to celebrate the buildings’ historically significant elements.

With the expressed support of those close to Michael Williams, including the executors of his estate, the proposed design will ensure that the character-defining heritage features — including both the east and west facades of the Duck’s Building and the significant rubble stone wall of the Canada Hotel — are showcased.

Project design has focused on making the new construction complementary yet subordinate to these historical elements and will ensure that visitors, employees and residents are afforded safe and sustainable enjoyment of these structures well into the future.

David Chard Chard Development Ltd. Vancouver