William Baker

The William Baker Neighbourhood is approximately 25 hectares (62 acres) and is one of five planned neighbourhoods surrounding Downsview Park in Toronto. A mature woodlot is at the heart of the neighbourhood, creating a quiet spot for people to enjoy nature in the city. The site was once part of the former Canadian Forces Base Toronto.

In 2021, following two years of consultation, Canada Lands  completed a pre-application public engagement process for the development of a district plan that includes new housing (some of which will be affordable housing, and some aimed at seniors), a mix of uses including commercial retail and services space, preservation of the woodlot, new green spaces and other amenities.  

In February 2021, Canada Lands submitted the William Baker District Plan and first phase development applications to the City of Toronto for approval. In April 2022, the proposed District Plan and applications were resubmitted to the City, with proposed refinements, for a final review. The District Plan and the zoning for the first phase of development were adopted by City Council in July 2022. We continue to work with the City on the Plan of Subdivision for the Phase 1 Lands, and expect it will be presented to City Council in early 2023. The lands will be developed over many years, and additional phases will be subject to future development applications.

Bulletins

Canada Lands, with support of its consultant team, is creating bulletins as part of the William Baker engagement process. The bulletins synthesize key topics and respond to community questions related to the future neighbourhood and District Plan and development applications submission. All the documents will be posted on this page as they become available.