David Dunlap Observatory Lands sold.

You may have noticed that there is a very large parcel of undeveloped land to the East of The Richmond Condo. This is the David Dunlap Observatory lands, upon which exists many deer, coyotes and foxes. Unit owners facing east and south will have a clear view of the main observatory domes, as well the historical buildings.


U of T recently sold the David Dunlap Observatory lands, including the buildings and telescope structures contained within it, to Metrus. This is about 170 acres of pristine land in the absolute heart of the town, and includes land on which sits the Elvis Stojko Arena and the Observatory Park (16th Ave/Berwick Crescent).

Originally donated in trust to U of T, for astronomical research by the Dunlap family, this facility's large optical telescope found the first evidence of black holes.

The main telescope is still one of the largest optical telescope lenses still in existence.

The town of Richmond Hill is in the midst of preparing various by-laws and regulations to govern the development of the lands, which the Heritage Canada Foundation had identified as 'Canada’s Top Endangered Cultural Place'. You can participate at town hall meetings (click here for more information). That site offers town reports, cultural studies, maps, meeting schedules, contact info, etc.

You can also connect with non-government organizations such as The Richmond Hill Naturalists and the Save the DDO organization.