Dunlap debate heats up with development plan

Frustrations mount with new proposals for site

Recently released PLans for the David Dunlap Observatory site have residents up in arms.

“After over two years of fighting to save this place, it’s obvious that absolutely nothing we’ve said made an impact,” said Karen Cilevitz of the David Dunlap Observatory Defenders.

The three proposed planning scenarios created by consulting company planning Alliance place “community pods,” composed of houses and townhomes, on various areas of the site. The plans also call for the construction of interior residential roads and pedestrian pathways. None of the three options would keep the site development-free.

Cilevitz said that the three proposals are contrary to an “overwhelming consensus” voiced by residents and others at public consultations to keep the site undeveloped. “What the town has shown, with the publication of their planning report, is that they have zero respect and understanding for what their residents want,” she said.

The site proposals are the latest in recent events that have outraged both residents and councillors, including the recent removal of a number of trees from the site by owner Metrus Developments. Coun. Godwin Chan said that he understands the anger of residents over the proposals.

“I recognize the discontent,” he said. “Maybe there should be a concept that has [no development]. It’s a very sensitive issue.” Brenda Hogg, deputy mayor of Richmond Hill, said that for the site to remain undeveloped would require either provincial and federal government intervention or a UNESCO World Heritage List designation, something town staff has been investigating.

“Even with this blow dealt by the town toward its residents, we will still continue to fight for the protection of the site,” Cilevitz said. Town staff will present the preferred scenario at a Jan. 18 meeting.

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