Quebec City's archaeological programme and provincial cultural heritage legislation

Abstract

Heritage legislation is a provincial responsibility in Canada. New heritage legislation was adopted in the Province of Quebec in October 2012, replacing the 1972 Cultural Properties Act. The Cultural Heritage Act defines new obligations for municipalities and offers new possibilities allowing them to protect and develop their archaeological heritage resources on an elective basis. The City of Quebec has worked closely with public and private partners over the last thirty years to assure the preservation and enhancement of its archaeological resources. The City is currently preparing an archaeological master plan for its territory which includes four legally protected historic districts, one of which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The master plan is being developed in the context of renewed heritage legislation and the adoption of a revised urban master plan required under provincial planning legislation but in a manner to capitalize on major achievements of past efforts. The archaeological master plan will be accompanied by policy and programmes designed to foster public interest and promote participation in the process. This chapter will address challenges to policy and programme development. A particular emphasis will be put on meeting expectations expressed in the new provincial Cultural Heritage Act.