The two maps illustrate the developments that occurred in the Sawry District over a century, from 1920 to 2020.
Overall, the district underwent a significant transformation from a semi-industrial and rural area into a modernized residential and commercial suburb. The most notable changes include the complete removal of industrial activity, a substantial increase in housing density, and the modernization of local infrastructure.
In 1920, the northwestern part of the district was occupied by the Tulebug Bros. Cannery, but by 2020, this had been replaced by the Yang Office Complex. To the east, the residential area expanded; while only houses existed in 1920, apartment blocks were introduced by 2020. Furthermore, the Elmwood River was made more accessible with the construction of a bridge and a bike path along the riverbank.
Significant changes also occurred south of Oak Avenue. The number of shops along the main road increased, and a new Sunoco Petrol Station was built on the site previously occupied by Prestwich Primary School. The school itself was relocated to the far south, below Miller’s Lake. Consequently, much of the woodland that surrounded the lake in 1920 was cleared to accommodate the new school buildings and additional housing.