The Supreme Court of Canada is set to review an appeal brought by a coalition questioning the constitutionality of a law that paves the way for significant transformations at Ontario Place. This iconic urban park located along Toronto’s waterfront, established in 1971, featured various attractions such as a large-screen movie theater, children’s play areas, and elevated pavilions over the water.
The Ontario government’s proposal involves revamping Ontario Place to incorporate a luxurious spa managed by a private entity. The coalition known as Ontario Place Protectors has contested the constitutionality of the province’s Rebuilding Ontario Place Act, alleging that it shields government actions from judicial oversight, thereby infringing upon the Constitution.
Moreover, the coalition has raised concerns about exemptions from environmental and heritage regulations, as well as municipal noise bylaws, arguing that these exemptions undermine public trust. Despite previous dismissals by lower courts, the coalition persisted in its legal challenge.
In response, Justice Grant Huscroft, writing on behalf of the Ontario Court of Appeal, emphasized that although there is widespread opposition to the government’s redevelopment plans for Ontario Place, the court’s role is to assess legal compliance rather than political disagreements. Consequently, the appeal was rejected.
Subsequently, the coalition sought permission to appeal to the Supreme Court, which has agreed to hear the case without providing specific reasons at this time. Eric Gillespie, the lawyer representing Ontario Place Protectors, expressed satisfaction with the Supreme Court’s decision to consider the case, highlighting the broader implications of the provincial legislation on future projects.
Ontario Premier Doug Ford dismissed the coalition as “crazy lefties” for pursuing the matter further, asserting his commitment to completing the ambitious redevelopment project at Ontario Place. The Supreme Court’s forthcoming review of the case is anticipated in the near future.