City councillors on the government management committee were filled in on the plans at a meeting last week, and it certainly appears to be a win-win-win situation for the city, the Guildwood community and the college.
Basically, Centennial is proposing that the historic site on top of the bluffs on the shores of Lake Ontario be converted into a think-tank and administrative hub for the college's School of Hospitality, Tourism and Culture. Also, as part of the plan the college would enter into a partnership with the private sector to establish a boutique hotel and conference centre on the Guild Inn grounds.
The proposal could see some $35 million of investment at the site, and the uses being suggested are very appropriate.
The Guild Inn and its grounds are a jewel in Scarborough's crown and must not only be protected from inappropriate development but used in a way that honours the long and rich history of the property.
After a number of owners in the early 1900s, the property was acquired by Rosa and Spencer Clark in 1932. Though it was the Depression, the Clarks set about establishing the Guild of All Arts on their 500-acre estate which stretched from the lake to Kingston Road, between Livingston Road and Galloway Road. During and just after the Second World War, the site was used as a naval training facility and a hospital. The property was given back to the Clarks by the Canadian government in 1947 and the Guild of artists continued to thrive even though the family sold 400 acres for the development of the community of Guildwood Village in 1953.
The grounds as they stand today, full of sculptures, reclaimed architectural features from a number of downtown buildings, the iconic Greek theatre and the gardens remain a key part of Scarborough's identity.
Given Centennial College's own history and reputation in Scarborough, the college can be counted on to deal with the Guild Inn respectfully.
Community members and the local councillor have already expressed approval for the plan.
"I couldn't have asked for a better deal with a better organization," said Ward 43 (Scarborough East) Councillor Paul Ainslie. "They're Scarborough-based, very enthusiastic about Scarborough, and offering a world-renowned program."
The last few years haven't been easy for the Guild Inn and many in the Guildwood community had become frustrated due to the lack of action or clear plans for the future, but fortunately patience has been a virtue in the wait for the right proposal to come along.
One can only imagine what might have been built in this prime location if the land had been privately owned rather than under the care of the city.
Though the city has been criticized, and the decision to back out of a proposed hotel deal last May drew fire from the proponent, this Centennial College plan seems one that the Clarks would have been very happy with.