Metrus purchases Dunlap lands from U of T
Pledges respect for site's heritage
Metrus Development has purchased the 190 acre David Dunlap lands in Richmond Hill from
the University of Toronto.
"We are pleased to become stewards of a unique and historical site on which we intend to protect the significant buildings, encourage ongoing science and, in due course, propose development that will respect its heritage," said Metrus vice-president, Fraser Nelson. Nelson adds that Metrus "fully understands and appreciates" the significance of the Dunlap property.
"We have been a responsible corporate citizen of Richmond Hill for over 25 years. Like other citizens, we value and respect these lands," said Nelson.
Metrus will ensure that the historic observatory and its telescope, the stone administration building dating from 1935 and the Alexander Marsh farmhouse dating from the 1850s will all remain intact, regardless of whether they are ever officially designated by the Conservation Review Board, which has yet to hold hearings on the matter.
Nelson also said that Metrus intends "to encourage ongoing science and learning" by seeking proposals from qualified astronomers and/or clubs to keep the observatory and its telescope funded and running. Nelson noted that Metrus has no current plans for development of the site.
"No development can or will occur on the property until development approvals are obtained and water and sewer allocation is available. Any development that does eventually occur will be respectful of the heritage of the site, on which the observatory, the administration building and the farm house will continue to exist," Nelson said.
The sale, brokered by Michael Czestochowski of CB Richard Ellis Limited, will generate $70 million. The University of Toronto's proceeds from the sale will be endowed in perpetuity to support the recently established Dunlap Institute for Astronomy and Astrophysics -- continuing the legacy of the 1930s gift made by Jessie Dunlap in memory of her husband, David.
U of T's new Dunlap Institute will focus on research, teaching, advanced training and public outreach in astronomy and astrophysics. Through this effort, U of T will further advance Toronto's current standing as a world leader in astronomy and astrophysics. The Institute will also help develop scientific instrumentation for world class observatories and foster major national and international research collaborations.
"The Dunlap Institute will build on Toronto's leadership in astronomy and astrophysics in the 21st century in the way that the Dunlap Observatory did in the 20th century," said Professor Meric Gertler, interim dean of arts and science at the University of Toronto. "We are glad to know that Metrus will honour the observatory's past even as we honour the Dunlap family's legacy for the future."