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A disused airport that initially launched almost a century ago is set to be transformed into a sprawling city.

Work to redevelop Downsview Airport, in northwest Toronto, Canada, was scheduled to kick off early this year. The radical overhaul will see the 370-acre site converted into a brand new urban development, housing some 66,000 residents across more than 30,000 properties. The city will be dubbed "YZD", a tribute to the call sign of the defunct airport, and planners anticipate it could accommodate up to 83,500 people by 2051.

It will comprise seven "distinct" neighbourhoods which will be interconnected and constructed in stages over the forthcoming decades. The 30-year scheme will reportedly cost £16 billion and ranks amongst the largest of its kind in North America.

The 1.24-mile long runway is described as the "centrepiece" of the proposals and will be converted into a pedestrianised park, connecting the seven neighbourhoods.

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The runway is characterised by developers as the "shared backyard" for the new residential zones and will "set a new standard for public space in Toronto".

A major emphasis of the proposals is green spaces, with about 70 acres of parks and open areas to be established, alongside convenient access to amenities.

The YZD website states: "YZD's many parks and open spaces will be interspersed throughout, all within minutes of homes and work. Its streets are designed for people, not only engines.

"Everything will be within reach: childcare, shops, schools and everyday services that are part of the richness of city living."

Developers are also keen to integrate the former airport's existing structures into the futuristic urban district, viewing this approach as more ecologically sound.

Derek Goring, CEO of Northcrest Developments, the company spearheading the scheme, told CNN: "There's a lot of embedded carbon in the existing buildings and rather than tearing them down and building everything new, there's a big carbon benefit to retaining those buildings."

Substantial hangars constructed during the period spanning the 1950s through to the 1990s will be preserved and converted into business premises, reports the Express.

Vegetation and greenery will blanket the rooftops, which project leaders say will aid in soaking up rainfall, lessening flood risks, whilst boosting wildlife diversity, CNN reported.

The location has stood empty since 2024 following Canadian aerospace manufacturer Bombardier's departure.