U of T heritage greenhouse relocated
Not surprisingly, the city has decided to accept a donation of $375,000 to expand Allen Gardens.
The University of Toronto (U of T) has agreed to provide the money starting this October through December, 2004. The money will be used to relocate the U of T Greenhouse Conservatory (Botany Building), which is listed as a heritage property.
U of T has agreed to erect two wings at Allen Gardens for the greenhouse and create a horticultural classroom. The idea is that the U of T greenhouse be used as a children’s teaching facility.
The economic development, culture and tourism department has pegged this project at $700,000 based on the donation plus additional funds from other donors. The city is seeking other funding partners.
The reason the greenhouse is being relocated in the first place is that the university is seeking approvals to construct a pharmacy building at College and University, where the greenhouse used to be. The $70 million project would be built next to two U of T heritage buildings. The city wants U of T to agree to a heritage protection easement agreement. Relocation of the greenhouse is also part of the city’s conditions.
If approved, U of T hopes to have the new pharmacy building completed by September, 2005.