Town of Richmond Hill
February 12, 2008, News Release

Council Takes a Big Step Forward Managing the Future of the David Dunlap Observatory Property

RICHMOND HILL - In designating a majority of the western half of the David Dunlap Observatory property as Cultural Heritage Landscape under the Ontario Heritage Act, Council reaffirmed its commitment to undertake efforts to ensure that any future use of the land constitutes good planning. This is one of many steps the Town is taking towards protecting the property’s important heritage resources.

Mayor Dave Barrow said, “Having a Cultural Heritage designation is only one of many tools available to assist the Town in managing any future development sensitively. We will continue to consider whatever means available to assist us in serving the best interests of the community in this regard.”

At last night’s meeting, Richmond Hill Council received a staff report that confirms the previous findings presented by Heritage Consultant Andre Scheinman, identifying those buildings and attributes on the property that have cultural or heritage significance and that could be included in the designation. As well, Council received a staff presentation regarding the planning approval framework and how the Cultural Heritage designation can act as an additional filter to guide appropriate potential development and protect the Town’s heritage resources. The information gathered since the January 28 meeting provides supplementary detail, but does not provide any additional reason or evidence for alteration to the area identified as Cultural Heritage Landscape. This additional information will be entered into evidence at the upcoming Conservation Review Board Hearing and supports the Town’s effort towards designation.
“It is important to recognize that designation does not freeze development, however, it does provide a tool to help us better manage it,” added the Mayor. There are a series of requirements that will be triggered under the Planning Act if development is to occur.

The Mayor explained to those in attendance that, “The Town is working hard and fast to respond to the timelines set by the University. We started this process with a lot of uncertainty, but we are on the right path to protect the important heritage attributes on the property and to manage any potential change.”

In September 2007, the University of Toronto announced its intention to sell the David Dunlap Observatory lands.

Contact: Ana Bassios, Commissioner, Planning & Development, (905) 771-2417

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