The Mayfair theatre on Bank Street is now the newest heritage building in Ottawa.
In a 16-6 vote, council decided Wednesday to designate the Mayfair a heritage building, which will protect the Centretown cinema from changes to its interior and exterior.
The public now has 30 days to object to the designation before council passes a bylaw protecting the property.
But heritage designation didn’t come without a fight. Knoxdale-Merivale Coun. Gord Hunter said the building doesn’t deserve heritage status, calling the cinema an “aberration” that wasn’t particularly attractive.
“We’re designating it for the artwork in the ladies bathroom,” Hunter said referring to the Mayfair’s unique interior.
The remarks seemed to annoy Capital Ward Coun. Clive Doucet, whose ward hosts the Mayfair. Doucet yelled off mike until Mayor Larry O’Brien brought the meeting back under control.
“Either you believe in protecting your history or you don’t,” said Somerset Coun. Diane Holmes in response to Hunter.
Holmes defended the Mayfair saying heritage buildings are not all eye-pleasing “castles,” but also are simple buildings that represent the history of Ottawa.
"I don’t think we have the right to force it down their throats,” said Barrhaven Coun. Jan Harder referring to the Mayfair’s owners.
Harder argued the issue was one of property rights and that city council was intruding on the owner’s right to develop the property.
This is done all across the world, what are you so shocked about,” responded Rideau-Vanier Counc. Georges Bedard. “It’s a planning issue. It’s good planning.”
The Mayfair now cannot be altered or demolished without council’s approval. The owner may appeal to the conservation review board to change the heritage designation.