Ontario Place, located in Toronto, was a renowned entertainment complex that opened in 1971. Built in the late 1960s and early 1970s, it was designed by architect Eberhard Zeidler and landscape architect Michael Hough, with the aim of showcasing the province of Ontario through innovative architecture and design. The complex featured five large pods that floated above Lake Ontario on steel supports, providing visitors with a futuristic experience. With its unique attractions, such as the IMAX theatre, concert forum, and various exhibits, Ontario Place quickly became a symbol of Ontario’s cultural and architectural innovation.

Ontario Place, in its early years, served as a platform to celebrate Ontario’s heritage and provide engaging family entertainment. The Cinesphere, Canada’s first permanent IMAX theatre, was one of the complex’s main attractions. Suspended over Lake Ontario, the Cinesphere became an iconic symbol of Ontario Place, captivating audiences with its immersive cinematic experience. The Forum, a concert space within Ontario Place, hosted free concerts featuring a diverse range of artists, further adding to the complex’s appeal and cultural significance.

However, as time went on, Ontario Place underwent changes to its attractions and focus. It shifted from being a showcase of Ontario to a more family-oriented amusement park and event space. In an effort to increase revenue, popular additions such as waterslides and a waterpark were introduced, catering to a wider audience. Unfortunately, these changes did not prevent a decline in attendance, leading to the closure of several attractions and increases in admission prices. The complex faced financial difficulties and ultimately closed its doors in 2012 for redevelopment.

The closure of Ontario Place marked a significant moment in its history, prompting discussions and proposals for its future. The site held historical and cultural significance as it was built on land that had been important to Indigenous peoples for thousands of years. Understanding the importance of preserving this heritage, campaigns by community groups emerged to safeguard the architecture and cultural value of Ontario Place, advocating for its reopening to the public.

Since its closure, there have been ongoing debates regarding the redevelopment of Ontario Place. Recently elected Toronto Mayor Olivia Chow and Ontario Premier Doug Ford, whose past exchanges during the campaign were marked by criticism, have shown a willingness to work together and find common ground on various issues related to Toronto’s welfare, including affordable housing and transit. However, there is a notable disagreement between the two regarding the future of Ontario Place. Mayor Chow advocates for keeping Ontario Place public, while Premier Ford asserts that the land falls under provincial jurisdiction.

In light of this difference in vision, opposition to the provincial government’s redevelopment plans for Ontario Place has emerged. One group, called Ontario Place for All, proposes an alternative plan for the west island of Ontario Place. Their vision involves revitalizing the area as a public park with a budget of $70 million, as opposed to the government’s $350 million plan for a private spa and water park. Ontario Place for All proposes refurbishing existing structures, including the Cinesphere and pods, and adding a “lakeside branch” of the Ontario Science Centre. Their plan aims to preserve over 800 trees and avoid lake-filling, ensuring the preservation of the natural environment.

Meanwhile, the government’s redevelopment plans for Ontario Place include moving the Ontario Science Centre to a new waterfront location near the Cinesphere, constructing a new concert venue, and creating new public spaces. The proposed public spaces, such as Water’s Edge, Brigantine Cove, Forum, Marina, and Mainland, would feature trails, parkland, waterfront access, and cultural programming. However, these plans have faced opposition from advocacy groups, such as Ontario Place for All, which express concerns about potential harm to at-risk species and the environment. They have called upon the federal government to assess the plans under the Impact Assessment Act, underscoring the need for thorough consideration of environmental impacts.

The recent news and updates about Ontario Place in Toronto highlight the ongoing discussions and debates surrounding its future. While Mayor Olivia Chow and Premier Doug Ford demonstrate a willingness to collaborate on various issues, discrepancies persist when it comes to the redevelopment of Ontario Place. Alternative proposals have been put forward by advocacy groups, focusing on the preservation of the site’s heritage and creating public spaces for community enjoyment. At the same time, the government’s plans aim to revitalize the area while introducing new attractions. The opposition raises concerns about the potential environmental impacts of the redevelopment project and calls for a careful assessment of the plans.

In shaping the future of Ontario Place, it is crucial to consider public input, preserve the historical significance and architectural heritage, and ensure the sustainable development of the site. The richness of Ontario Place’s history and the potential it holds for public use should guide the decision-making process. Its unique design, its connection to Indigenous land, and its cultural value make it a site of immense importance. By taking all these factors into account, Ontario Place can evolve while preserving its legacy for future generations to appreciate and enjoy.