WRENFORD — On May 2, 2025, City Council approved updated heritage property guidelines specifically for the Old Mill Museum & Archives and the surrounding heritage conservation district. The new rules make it easier for property owners and staff to maintain the area's historic character while keeping safety and accessibility in mind.
The Old Mill Museum, a restored 1834 grist mill on Mill Street, is one of the city's oldest landmarks. The updated guidelines lay out clear steps for repairs, material choices, and exterior changes so that the building and its neighbours stay true to their history. The changes also line up with existing financial supports for maintenance work on designated buildings.
"Keeping our heritage buildings standing strong means balancing respect for the past with practical needs today," said Gwen Lachance, Heritage & Archives Coordinator. "These guidelines give everyone clear answers on what is allowed, so we can protect what makes Old Mill special without creating unnecessary hurdles."
If you own a property in the Old Mill heritage area, the new guidelines will affect how you plan repairs or changes to the exterior. You will need to follow the new steps before starting work. The guidelines cover things like window replacements, roof repairs, and adding small structures. You can review the full document and see if your property is included on the Heritage property guidelines page.
Residents who want to learn more about the history of the site or book a tour can visit the Old Mill Museum & Archives. For questions about applying for a heritage designation or using the incentive program, contact the Planning & Development team through Development Applications.
