Councillor Rowena Santos has introduced a motion to City Council that charts a new path forward for the historic Bovaird House property.
The motion outlines a framework for using existing city resources to utilize the Bovaird House site in the short term while laying the groundwork for future enhancements, including potential museum designation.
“This is about taking meaningful steps that make Bovaird House more accessible and inclusive,” said Councillor Santos. “We are moving forward with an interim and longer-term plan to protect this important site while inviting more of the community to experience and enjoy it.”
Key Elements of the Motion:
Interim Programming & Access: Staff will utilize the site for public events such as weddings, recreation such as a horseshoe field, community garden, cultural programming, and movie nights, building on the city’s successful activation of Alderlea and similar sites.
Public Heritage Space: The site will be officially designated a public open space, allowing residents to walk the grounds and enjoy its historic setting.
Heritage Funding & Museum Planning: Staff have been directed to apply for heritage grants and continue discussions with the Region of Peel regarding the transition of Peel Art Gallery Museum and Archives (PAMA) to the City. This would support a future vision of official museum status at Bovaird House with professional curatorial oversight and improve the site’s qualification for grant applications.
Any new funding or staffing proposals will be considered as part of the City’s 2026 budget process. The city’s new approach follows recent changes in the stewardship of the site and responds to widespread community interest in seeing the property reimagined for the public good.
“This motion ensures Bovaird House remains what it was always meant to be, a place where Brampton’s history is not only preserved but lived and shared by the whole community,” Santos said.
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