The former home of Ladner Baptist Church and the recently renovated Ladner United Church have both been recognized by Heritage BC.
The two church buildings received Heritage BC Awards of Honour last night to acknowledge extensive preservation efforts.
Ladner United Church won the award for the respectful renewal of the building by RAM Construction.
In 2013, the 48th Avenue church was badly in need of repair and extension to accommodate its growing congregation. RAM Construction was able to change the original design, which was to demolish most of the existing sanctuary, to a full renovation and restoration so the heritage building and features could be saved.
"The preservation of Ladner United Church, while creating a fully accessible and multipurpose community building, was an amazing partnership between the people of Ladner United Church and the municipality of Delta, our builder Steve Knoblauch, our architects Keith Sullivan and Michele Donald, and the larger community of Ladner," said Rev. Jim Short. "We are blessed. Come visit us sometime."
The former home of Ladner Baptist Church at the corner of 47A Avenue and Delta Street received recognition for the restoration of the 1902 building back to its former glory. In 2012, the bell tower and building foundations were collapsing, but with careful repair the former church building is now home to the Delta Optimist.
The Heritage BC Awards recognize best practices and high standards in heritage conservation. The awards also emphasize innovation and commitment to heritage conservation
that also contributes to environmental, economic, social, and/or cultural sustainability. "This year's award winners have each taken forward-looking approaches to heritage conservation, planning and education," says Kathryn Molloy, executive director of Heritage BC. "In our 35 years presenting these awards, Heritage BC is proud to see so many individuals and groups across the province working creatively, collaboratively, to steward and share their local heritage."
