SPRE 106: Unlocking Cultural Space: Planning & Development Resources and Strategies

Описание: Led by Erika Hennebury and Dan Godin, Senior Cultural Affairs Officers with the City of Toronto, this session uses real-life case studies to explore the work of Toronto’s Office for Cultural Space. You’ll learn how the planning and development system works in Ontario and Toronto, discover planning tools that support cultural spaces, and gain insights into what makes cultural space developments successful.

Participants will leave with practical knowledge and resources to create inclusive, artist-centered cultural spaces. You’ll gain a clearer understanding of how municipal planning processes shape arts and cultural infrastructure, and greater confidence engaging with City staff, partners, and development opportunities.

What you will learn:
How the planning and development system works in Ontario and Toronto
How to identify, access, and apply for City-owned or below-market spaces
How to apply this knowledge across other municipalities
Approaches to building partnerships and leveraging municipal development tools
Insights from Toronto case studies on how cultural spaces were developed and what made them successful

About the Presenters
Erika Hennebury is a Senior Cultural Affairs Officer with the City of Toronto’s Economic Development and Culture division. Erika is co-lead for the City of Toronto’s Office for Cultural Space where she works on policy, planning, program development, and capital projects related to cultural infrastructure. Her work at the City has included capital partnerships, such as Blackhurst Cultural Centre, cultural hubs, such as 32 Lisgar Creative & Cultural Hub, and the development of a Cultural Districts Program. Erika is a Registered Professional Planner, and a member of the Canadian Institute of Planners, and the Ontario Professional Planners Institute. She holds a Masters degree in Environmental and Urban Change, Planning (York University).

Dan Godin is a Senior Cultural Affairs Officer in the City of Toronto's Economic Development and Culture division, where he specializes in planning for cultural space through the development and planning processes. His work includes leading a City-wide Cultural Infrastructure Study for the City of Toronto, managing a property tax incentive program for cultural spaces and venues, and coordinating development review work that delivers community and cultural space across the city. Dan brings practical experience navigating complex planning applications, facilitating cross-divisional partnerships, and designing policy frameworks that help cultural organisations access and maintain space. His work connects technical planning processes with the needs of Toronto's cultural community, translating policy into tangible outcomes for arts and culture organisations.Dan is a Registered Professional Planner, and a member of the Canadian Institute of Planners, and the Ontario Professional Planners Institute. He holds a Masters degree in Environmental Studies, Planning (York University).

We acknowledge the financial support of the Department of Canadian Heritage.