New fencing has been installed blocking access to the West Island of Ontario Place from Trillium Park, indicating the start of the controversial construction of a private spa by the Therme Group from Austria. It also marks the beginning of a 95-year lease between Therme Group and the provincial government for the project.
Ontario Place for All, a grassroots organization, is holding a rally today to protest the unexpected fencing. The group advocates for a waterfront revitalization that upholds these core principles, including maintaining public access to Ontario Place’s redevelopment.
The new fencing along the Ontario Place waterfront trail prevents entry to a section of Trillium Park and the West Island, where many enjoy walking and biking by the lake.
The plan involves the construction of a sprawling glass building on the West Island which will house a private wellness centre and waterpark. Public parkland, a beach, a boardwalk, and biking trails are also planned.
Ontario Place for All is not only focusing on the fencing but also expressing concerns about the delayed community consultation regarding the redevelopment of Ontario Place. Their Ontario Place for All Mayoral Candidate Tracker shows the candidates they believe should be supported or avoided during the upcoming Toronto mayoral election based on their promises and policies throughout the election period.
Ontario Place encompasses 155 acres of waterfront property in Toronto and operates under the authority of the Ontario government. It is home to the popular SIng! Free Music concert series in Trillium Park, the Budweiser Stage concert venue formerly known as the Molson Amphitheatre, and the world’s first permanent IMAX movie theatre, the Cinesphere, which is temporarily closed for renovation.
The rally is taking place today at noon on the West Island next to the new fence, on the south shore east of the beach. West Island is only accessible by the mainland, not Trillium Park. Follow Ontario Place for All for updates.
