Local governments get more time to consult on Heritage Conservation Act overhaul

['Emily Joveski', 'Emily Joveski Is The Provincial News Reporter For Vista Radio', 'Based In Victoria B.C. She Has Worked In Radio For More Than A Decade', "Was Previously On The Airwaves As A Broadcaster For The Canadian Press In Toronto. When She'S Not At Her Desk", 'She Might Be Found Exploring Vancouver Island Or Loitering In A Local Book Store.'] My Creston Now 2025-09-29 20:05:05

Municipalities (UBCM) have welcomed the province’s decision to extend consultations on a controversial overhaul of the Heritage Conservation Act. The Heritage Conservation Act (HCA) was passed in 1977 to protect certain archaeological sites on Crown and private land, and last saw significant amendments in 1996. The provincial heritage register currently includes more than 64,000 protected heritage sites, 90 per cent of which are Indigenous. They also aim to strengthen the role of First Nations in the management and protection of cultural heritage sites. “The existing Heritage Conservation Act is not working,” Premier David Eby told delegates during his speech wrapping up the UBCM convention on Friday.