The project is being wholly financed by Society Developments, a Toronto-based real estate company. Pictured: Tourism Minister Stan Cho, MPP Sam Oosterhoff, Niagara Falls Mayor Jim Diodati and others celebrate the announcement. Photo Credit: Stan Cho/X.
The Ontario government has formally approved the redevelopment of the Niagara Parks Commission-owned Toronto Power Generating Station in Niagara Falls. This restorative enterprise will create the first five-star hotel in the Niagara Region.
“This project is an outstanding legacy for Niagara Parks and the province,” Niagara Parks Commission CEO David Adames told The Niagara Independent. “A building that ceased operation in 1974 will now become purposeful once again.”
“The new Toronto Power Hotel will be world-class, befitting of its location on the Niagara River overlooking Niagara Falls.”
The project is being wholly financed through a $200-million investment by Society Developments, a Toronto-based real estate company, in cooperation with Ancaster’s Pearle Hospitality, which will oversee the site and become the newest tenant of Niagara Parks.
A lease agreement between the Niagara Parks Commission and Pearle Hospitality has been accepted by the provincial government at this juncture.
Upon completion, the facility will include a wide range of unique experiences for tourists, including a variety of dining options, a theatre, as well as a free museum and art gallery. There will also be key indoor and outdoor locations where tourists will be able to enjoy high-quality views of the Falls.
“Niagara Falls offers a one-of-a-kind opportunity for travellers from across the world, and our government believes in its potential as an economic driver for Niagara,” said Minister of Tourism, Culture, and Gaming Stan Cho in a media comment.
“We are proud to support the transformation of the Toronto Power Generating Station into a spectacular hotel that will create a world-class experience for all visitors, helping the region grow as a top-tier international tourist destination.”
The Toronto Power Generating Station was designed by E.J. Lennox, a prestigious architect in the late 1800s and early 1900s. It was built in 1906 and provided electrical power for cities and townships throughout Ontario until 1974. The facility was designated a national historic site of Canada in 1983.
“This transformative investment to restore and reimagine the Toronto Power Generating Station is welcome news for Niagara,” shared Hon. Niagara West MPP Sam Oosterhoff in a recent press release. “The restoration of this historic monument to our region’s legacy of energy innovation is part of our government’s plan to support Niagara as a key tourist destination, not only attracting visitors from coast to coast in North America but from around the globe.”
Niagara Falls Mayor Jim Diodati celebrated the announcement by emphasizing the immense economic growth and new jobs which will be forged in the months and years ahead.
“Big news for Niagara! The Ontario government has approved the redevelopment of the Toronto Power Generating Station into a luxury boutique hotel by the Niagara Parks Commission,” Diodati posted on social media. “Located right near the iconic Niagara Falls, this project will create sustainable jobs and boost the local economy,” he continued. “Exciting times ahead!”
The Toronto Power Generation Station restoration project, which is expected to be completed in the next three-to-four years, has been widely described as a milestone development for Niagara.
Nick Redekop completed his Honours Bachelor of Arts Degree in Labour Studies at Brock University. He has previously served in municipal and federal politics. In his free time, Nick enjoys following sports, taking part in outdoor activities, and reading biographies. Nick resides in Niagara Falls
