A historic Highlands neighbourhood home where Marshall McLuhan once lived will be preserved after city council voted to give the Edmonton Arts Council $75,000 to turn it into a place for writers to meet and work.

Marshall McLuhan lived in this house in the Highlands neighbourhood when he was a young boy. (University of Alberta)

McLuhan is the world-renowned intellectual and media critic who first coined the term "the medium is the message." He lived in the house for several years when he was a young boy before his family moved to Winnipeg.

The grant from the city is to be used for the down payment on the house

"It will be a benefit to the entire community in its enhancement of Edmonton's profile, its intellectual heritage and also the excitement around a gathering spot such as this," said John Mahon, the executive director of the Edmonton Arts Council.

Mahon's group will be responsible for the mortgage and maintenance of the property. Mahon says he's heard from other groups that are willing to help out.