The Supreme Court of Canada is set to review an appeal filed by a group questioning the legality of a law that could bring significant transformations to Ontario Place.
Situated on the Toronto waterfront and established in 1971, Ontario Place boasted attractions such as a large-screen movie theater, playgrounds for children, and unique pavilions hovering above the water.
Ontario’s government has proposed a revamp of Ontario Place that includes the addition of a luxurious spa managed by a private enterprise.
The coalition known as Ontario Place Protectors has raised concerns about the constitutionality of the Rebuilding Ontario Place Act, asserting that it shields governmental actions from judicial oversight, thereby breaching the Constitution.
Moreover, the coalition has contended that the Act’s exemptions from environmental regulations, heritage laws, and local noise ordinances undermine public confidence and trust.
After an initial dismissal by a judge and an unsuccessful appeal in the Ontario Court of Appeal, the coalition has taken its case to the highest court for a final decision.