A campaign is in the works to make the ByWard Market a national historic site to help celebrate its 200th birthday.

City staff are recommending councillors approve the nomination to the federal program managed by Parks Canada.

In a report, staff say the status would have little impact on landowners but could boost tourism to the area. It would also result in a bronze commemorative plaque.

The ByWard Market opened in 1827 after Colonel John By had a dense cedar bog drained to create a commercial hub for workers building the Rideau Canal, according to Heritage Ottawa.

Katherine Spencer-Ross, president of Heritage Ottawa, said the looming bicentennial makes now the ideal time for the campaign. She acknowledged the status offers no legal protection but said the market would gain added “cac

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