Cineplex Queensway to Continue Operations Following Community Support

Cineplex Cinemas Queensway, located at 1025 The Queensway, will remain open after significant community pushback against a proposed redevelopment project. Since it opened in 2001, the theatre quickly became a vital hub of the community. Today, it is one of the top-grossing and busiest theatres in all of the Greater Toronto Area (GTA). Residents can…

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Cineplex Queensway to Continue Operations Following Community Support

Cineplex Cinemas Queensway, located at 1025 The Queensway, will remain open after significant community pushback against a proposed redevelopment project. Since it opened in 2001, the theatre quickly became a vital hub of the community. Today, it is one of the top-grossing and busiest theatres in all of the Greater Toronto Area (GTA). Residents can breathe a sigh of relief as fears of demolition have been quashed with the announcement that the cinema will continue its operations.

That all changed when, earlier this year, the City of Toronto approved a controversial redevelopment proposal that meant the theatre’s destruction. The public plan still includes the building of 10 condo towers that reach up to 46 storeys in height. Jointly, these towers will provide more than 4,000 residential units in addition to energetic commercial space. Even before this decision was announced, local residents expressed immediate and fierce outrage. They expressed their concerns over the loss of the Cineplex location and the potential negative impact of increased density on local infrastructure.

Partly in response to these worries, Cineplex has played defense, assuring reporters that they will not go dark.

“To our Queensway community, we hear you loud and clear… we are happy to share its credits won’t be rolling anytime soon.” – Cineplex

Community Advocacy and Support

Community support was key in swaying this decision. In September 2024, a Change.org petition titled “Save Cineplex Cinemas Queensway (Etobicoke) from being demolished!” was launched. The petition took off almost immediately, reaching more than 14,700 signatures as of this writing. This grassroots movement helped illustrate why the theatre meant so much to the community, beyond just being a place to see movies.

With this initiative, Cineplex is demonstrating that they are truly committed to their community. To celebrate, they’re making a few select tickets just $5 general admission and $5 popcorn! The theatre recently installed two large exterior banners on either side of the building. This action demonstrates its dedication to being an important component in the community’s fabric.

“Since 2001, the theatre has been more than a place to watch movies – it’s an entertainment and social hub for family outings, date nights and fun times with friends.” – Cineplex

Whatever its future, Cineplex Cinemas Queensway is still a beloved theater and home for many local residents. For more than 20 years, it has produced lasting movie memories for millions. It functions as a cherished meeting place for families and friends, too. The fast approval of the redevelopment plan had set off panic bells over losing this beloved performance space.

A Landmark for Local Residents

Cineplex took its time to show its excitement for furthering its artistic tradition in the region.

The community has mobilized to save this beloved landmark cinema. Cineplex Cinemas Queensway will continue to be a cultural and entertainment cornerstone of the community.

“We are looking forward to continuing to be a part of the Queensway community’s movie memories for many years to come.” – Cineplex

As the community rallies around this iconic cinema, it remains clear that Cineplex Cinemas Queensway will continue to be an integral part of local culture and entertainment.

Lucas Nguyen Avatar