The Ontario Science Centre is moving to two temporary locations — Harbourfront Centre and Sherway Gardens — after its Don Mills location was controversially shut down last June over concerns about its structural safety.
The Sherway location will open in November and Harbourfront in December.
“The Ontario Science Centre has been inspiring young minds across the province for decades. With exhibits at CF Sherway Gardens and Harbourfront Centre set to open soon, we are ensuring that more children remain engaged and excited to learn about science,” Infrastructure Minister Kinga Surma said in a written release.
But Liberal MPP Adil Shamji, who represents Don Valley East, said the Ford government’s “piecemeal policies have literally left the science centre in pieces.”
“Carving the science centre into two and situating it along already congested traffic corridors will ensure that it becomes a shadow of its former self, and less accessible than ever before,” he said of the west end Toronto and Toronto waterfront locations.
Sherway will feature an interactive LEGO skyscraper exhibit as well as Circus!, which looks at the science behind the carnival tricks — an exhibit created by the centre that has been picked up around the globe.
KidSpark, the popular hands-on exhibit for kids, will be moved and reopen in December at Harbourfront.
The science centre was abruptly shuttered four months ago after two reports found the building had “failing infrastructure, including critical roof issues, building systems and an inaccessible pedestrian bridge.”
Critics, however, have said while the reports cited concerns in some areas, neither called for an immediate shutdown.
Surma, however, has said “it is unfortunate that we are in this circumstance — it is terrible. None of us wanted to make a decision like this.”
But given the cost — an estimated $500 million — and lengthy repairs, as well as the fact that the centre was already slated to move to Ontario Place in 2028, she has said it was the only choice.
Shamji, however, noted that both engineering reports said the Don Mills building could be salvaged.
Of the two new locations, science Centre CEO Paul Kortenaar said “we are excited to share our passion for science and provide incredible STEM (science, technology, engineering and math) learning experiences in engaging and innovative ways for the people of Ontario.”
The science centre will also offer pop-up exhibits across the province.
Correction – Oct. 22, 2024
This article was edited from a previous version that misstated the location of Sherway Gardens.
