The Ford government in Ontario is in the process of relocating the Ontario Science Centre from its current location at Don Mills Road and Eglinton Avenue to a new flagship location at Ontario Place. This move was prompted by structural issues with the building’s roof, leading to the closure of the current facility last year. The decision to move the science centre to Ontario Place was met with controversy and backlash from advocates who believed that the government allowed the building to deteriorate to justify the move. The sudden closure of the science centre with only a few hours’ notice further fueled the opposition to the relocation.
As part of the move to Ontario Place, the government has issued a call for bids on a contract to help guide the science centre’s mission and programming at its new home. The 10-year Strategic Master Plan will help to identify ways for the organization to fulfill its provincial mandate and position the Science Centre for success at its new location. Critics of the government, such as the advocacy group Save Ontario Science Centre, have raised concerns about the timing of the strategic plan, which they believe should have been developed before the decision to relocate. They also question the need to hire an external consultant for this task, suggesting that the government should have the necessary expertise in-house.
The final cost of the consulting contract for the Ontario Science Centre relocation has not been determined and will be determined as consultants bid on it. Ontario NDP MPP Chris Glover criticized the decision to move the science centre, calling it “shameful” and expressing concern that a generation of children will miss out on the educational opportunities provided by the original location. The province is facing criticism for starting from scratch with the relocation and laying off individuals with expertise in the field, potentially impacting the quality of education and programming offered at the new facility.
The government’s decision to move the Ontario Science Centre has sparked political backlash and local protests, with advocates questioning the necessity of the relocation and the process involved. The abrupt closure of the current facility and the announcement of the move to Ontario Place has raised concerns about the future of science education and programming in the province. Critics argue that the government should have prioritized the development of a strategic plan before making the decision to move the science centre, in order to ensure a smooth transition and continuity in its mission and programming.
As preparations move forward for the new Ontario Science Centre at Ontario Place, the government is seeking a consultant to help guide the organization through the interim period and define strategies and programming at the new facility. The province aims to position the Science Centre for success in its new location and fulfill its provincial mandate to provide educational opportunities in science and technology. However, concerns remain about the decision-making process, the expertise available within the government, and the potential impact on science education for future generations in Ontario.
