Critics have once again raised doubts about the sudden closure of the Ontario Science Centre by the Ford government, following a recent heavy winter storm in Toronto.
Approximately one and a half years ago, officials revealed that the aging 55-year-old facility had structural issues with its roof. An engineering report highlighted several roof panels in a precarious state that could potentially collapse under the weight of snow.
Despite a record snowfall, the roof seems intact from the outside, prompting local officials to question the government’s rationale for shutting down the center.
City councillor Josh Matlow criticized the closure, stating, “The government’s reasons are questionable, especially since the roof appears more reliable than the government itself.”
In response to queries, Premier Doug Ford defended the closure, citing concerns about child safety due to potential roof collapse risks mentioned by independent engineering firms.
Contrary to Ford’s assertions, the engineering reports did not explicitly recommend closure but emphasized the need for targeted repairs.
Yasser Korany, a consulting forensic engineer, clarified that there was no urgent need for closure based on the information provided by the engineers involved.
Infrastructure Ontario disclosed that limited snow removal has been conducted under stringent engineering supervision, with uncertainty about the interior condition of the building.
City councillor Matlow warned about the risks of neglect if the facility is not properly maintained and heated during the closure period.
While the government has ruled out reopening the science centre at its original site, there are mounting calls to revive it in some form to uphold its educational and community value.
Liberal MPP Adil Shamji emphasized the importance of any potential replacement offering similar benefits in terms of education and cultural enrichment.
Although the government initially projected the reopening of the Ontario Place facility in 2028, a recent auditor general’s report suggested a delay to 2029.
Furthermore, plans have been announced to establish an interim location for the science centre at Toronto’s Harbourfront Centre by the summer of 2026.