The Supreme Court of Canada has agreed to review an appeal from a coalition challenging the constitutionality of a law that could lead to significant changes at Ontario Place. The urban park, established in 1971 along the Toronto waterfront, featured various attractions such as a large-screen theater, children’s play areas, and pavilions overlooking the water.
The Ontario government’s redevelopment plans for Ontario Place include the addition of a luxury spa managed by a private firm. The coalition, known as Ontario Place Protectors, contested the Rebuilding Ontario Place Act, arguing that it shields government actions from judicial review, thus violating the Constitution. They also claimed that exemptions from environmental and heritage regulations and municipal noise bylaws constitute a breach of public trust.
Previous legal challenges were dismissed by lower courts, with the Court of Appeal emphasizing that the government’s decision faced strong opposition from concerned citizens and groups. Despite political resistance, the government remained steadfast in its plans, prompting the coalition to seek court intervention. The Court of Appeal ultimately ruled that the contested provisions did not contravene the law or Constitution.
Subsequently, the coalition sought permission to appeal to the Supreme Court, which has agreed to hear the case without providing specific reasons. Ontario Place Protectors’ lawyer, Eric Gillespie, expressed satisfaction with the Supreme Court’s acknowledgment of the case’s significance and anticipates a thorough hearing.
Ontario Premier Doug Ford dismissed the coalition as “crazy lefties” for pursuing the matter in the Supreme Court, emphasizing the government’s commitment to transforming Ontario Place into a premier destination. Ford highlighted the project’s potential and expressed eagerness to see its completion.
The Supreme Court is yet to schedule a hearing date for the case, but it is anticipated to occur within the year.