The Deli argues that its one-story building, constructed in 1926, is a symbol of an era of community living in the Queen’s Park area that has largely disappeared. The proposal would see additions to the side and rear of the building as well as a basement, with the goal of adding 49 square metres to the deli area. The business also aims to recreate a historic roof sign associated with the building, which would require a relaxation of New Westminster bylaws. The proposal stresses the historical significance of the building:
“It has historic value for its association with the 1920’s New Westminster building boom, and as one of Queen’s Park’s last surviving and functioning corner stores. The property also has social and cultural significance, evidence by its continuous commercial use and its pattern of long-term ownership and management by local New Westminster families.”
Queen’s is a popular deli that has received people’s choice awards for the best butcher and meat market in New Westminster, and boasts of providing locally sourced meats and creating cured and smoked meats in-house. The heritage revitalization process involves the municipal governments providing funds and legal protection to help make older buildings functional while retaining the graphic design and aesthetic presentation reminiscent of a past era.
With the proposal made, future steps include a public consultation process as well as a review by New Westminster’s community heritage commission before a decision on the application will be made.