History of Aurora Highlands
The initial grants of Crown land, in Aurora Highlands were distributed as follows; William Tyler received Lot 80 in 1805 William Kennedy received Lot 79 in 1803 John Dean Fisk was granted Lot 78 in 1806 Henry Harman obtained Lot 77 in 1802. Alex Gardiner was given Lot 76 in 1799.
These individuals had varying impacts on the settlement of the area. Notably William Tyler generously donated land for the establishment of the Methodist Church while William Kennedy operated a Tannery and his son eventually became chairman of the public school board and built Auroras school. By the mid 1860s Charles Irwins family held most of the land ownership according to the Tremain map.
The Irwins established a grist mill along the banks of a creek that meandered through their property. Although this creek did not have a water flow it provided support for several small mill complexes alongside the Irwin mill.
Until its opening in 1931 Aurora Highlands remained primarily rural with some industry. The introduction of Aurora Highlands Golf Club led to development, around its vicinity over time making it a significant landmark until it was sold in 2014. Presently plans are underway to transform it into a home development.
Lifestyle
The Aurora Shopping Centre can be found at 14800 Yonge Street. Is home, to than thirty different merchants, including a spacious supermarket. Meanwhile Smart Centres Aurora, situated at 14760 Yonge Street is centred around stores, like Winners and State & Main Kitchen & Bar.
Aurora Highlands
Aurora Highlands as the name suggests is situated on a plateau of land and, at an elevation than most parts of Aurora. The southern border of this neighbourhood is made up of conservation land that belongs to the Oak Ridges Moraine.
In terms of land area Aurora Highlands is one of the neighbourhoods in Aurora. It is known for its family atmosphere, housing options and ample green spaces. Some notable landmarks, in the area include the Oak Ridges Moraine Trail, Highland Gate Trail, Aurora High School Regency Acres Public School, Aurora Shopping Centre, Confederation Park, Case Woodlot and Theatre Aurora.
The former Highland Golf Course located in the part of the neighbourhood is currently undergoing redevelopment to create a new home development called Allegro.
Transit
In this neighbourhood you’ll find a total of 80 transit stops. One of the rail stations is Aurora GO. Most people who live here rely on vehicles, for their commute. Its quite common for them to travel to other cities.
Destination of Residents Commute
- Commute within the city – 24%
- Commute to another city – 74%
Various Modes of Commuting
- Vehicle – 85%
- Transit – 10%
- Walk/bike – 3%
Duration of Residents Commutes
- 15 to 29 minutes – 22%
- 30 to 44 minutes – 21%
- 45 to 59 minutes – 14%
- 60 minutes and over – 22%
- Less than 15 minutes – 19%
Aurora Highlands Elementary, Secondary High Schools
This area boasts elementary and secondary schools, both with regular and specialized programs. Aurora Highlands is served by a total of 8 schools and 5 Catholic schools. The local schools offer a range of programs such, as French Immersion, Advanced Placement, International Baccalaureate and Gifted/Talented Program.
- Public Schools: 8
- Catholic Schools: 5
Public
- Regency Acres PS
- Highview PS
- Aurora HS
- ÉS Norval-Morrisseau
- Académie de la Moraine
- Wellington PS
- Dr. G.W. Williams SS
- Lester B. Pearson PS
Catholic
- St. Joseph Catholic ES
- ÉSC Renaissance
- Cardinal Carter Catholic SS
- Light of Christ Catholic ES
- ÉÉC Saint-Jean
Aurora Highlands Parks & Facilities
It’s really fun to explore the parks and recreational facilities here, in Aurora Highlands. You’ll find playgrounds for kids, sports parks and even skating opportunities. Aurora Highlands boasts a total of 9 parks, with a 34 facilities. On average each park offers, around 3 facilities to enjoy.
- Number of Parks: 9
- Number of Recreation Facilities: 34
Recreation Facilities in Neighbourhood Parks
- Playgrounds – 7
- Rink – 1
- Tennis Courts – 2
- Volleyball Courts – 2
- Basketball Courts – 5
- Ball Diamonds – 5
- Sports Fields – 5
- Track – 1
- Sports Courts – 4
- Trails – 2
Aurora Highlands Homes
The Aurora Highlands neighbourhood provides a range of housing options, for homebuyers. In the area around Regency Acres Public School on Murray Drive you’ll find a mix of homes that were built in the 1960s and 70s.
These include detached two story houses, detached houses, split level houses and bungalows. Additionally there’s a development called Allegro situated on what used to be a golf course. Allegro offers four and five bedroom homes with a style.
These upscale residences are located on lots measuring 52 and 61 feet wide surrounded by mature trees. Many of the homes, in Aurora Highlands have the advantage of backing onto greenspaces and parkland areas.