St. John’s city council has approved a heritage report related to the demolition of a number of buildings on Water Street.

Council previously voted against a motion to grant the property at 157-163 Water Street heritage status, which would have protected the structures from the wrecking ball.

However, the staff report has determined that any new structure erected on the site maintain a number of heritage features that would maintain the historic character of the street and surrounding neighbourhood.

The report recommended taking pictures and maintaining some of the property’s “character defining elements” including the general look of the building and a pedestrian walkway linking Water Street with Harbour Drive.

The motion was carried.