Strong Opposition to Bill 5…

Strong Opposition to Bill 5 and Ontario Place Redevelopment

I am writing as a deeply concerned resident of Ontario regarding the proposed Bill 5 and the associated redevelopment plans for Ontario Place, including the relocation of the Ontario Science Centre and the Therme project.

Ontario Place is a cherished public space with immense cultural, historical, and environmental value. The current redevelopment proposal, particularly the privatization and commercialization aspects, represents an assault on public places and the principles of good urban planning. This is not just a local issue-it is a decision that will reverberate negatively for generations to come.

The plan to relocate the Ontario Science Centre and introduce a private spa complex is fundamentally at odds with the spirit of Ontario Place as an accessible, inclusive, and public asset. Once lost, these public spaces cannot be reclaimed. The proposed changes risk erasing decades of thoughtful planning and public investment for the benefit of a private entity with questionable intentions.

I urge you to reconsider the entire project. It is not too late to halt the Therme redevelopment and to preserve Ontario Place as a space for all Ontarians, not just those who can afford to pay. Standing up to corporate interests and prioritizing the public good would be a courageous act-one that would earn the respect of many, myself included. This government listens, I know this as you pulled back from Greenbelt swaps when we were loud! You pulled back from demolishing the old Credit River Bridge when voices got loud! Please hear us now!

Please hear the voices of Ontarians who value public space, transparency, and responsible stewardship of our shared heritage. I implore you to stop Bill 5 and the current redevelopment plans before irreversible damage is done. We can do better!