A divisive plan to transform a beloved Mississauga shopping plaza into a towering residential complex is back in the spotlight. The proposal, targeting Streetsville Centre Plaza at 120 and 146 Queen St. S., will be debated at Mississauga’s Planning and Development Committee meeting this Monday.
The single-story plaza—home to staples like Tim Hortons, Shoppers Drug Mart, a bank, eateries, a gym, and various shops—could soon give way to eight residential towers. The development would also incorporate a building next to Cuchulainn’s Irish Pub, a heritage-designated local landmark.
Initially pitched in 2023 by the De Zen Group, the project envisioned eight buildings ranging from two to 18 storeys, boasting 1,435 residential units. Community backlash was swift, with roughly 200 residents turning out to each of three public meetings to voice concerns. Responding to the uproar, the developer trimmed the plan. Now, the proposal calls for towers between two and 15 storeys, new public roads, and a mix of public and private open spaces. Five of the buildings would blend residential and commercial uses.
The site spans multiple addresses—120, 128, 142, 154, 158 Queen St. S., and 169 Crumbie St.—and construction would roll out in phases. Phase one would feature two 13-storey mixed-use buildings along Queen Street South, with shops or services on the ground floor, offices on the second, and apartments above. These would frame a holdout property at 136 Queen St. S.
City planners acknowledge the plaza is “underused and ripe for redevelopment,” but they’ve flagged several sticking points. The proposed height and density far exceed what’s currently allowed or envisioned for the area. The road layout raises safety concerns, particularly for emergency and service vehicles, while wastewater and stormwater systems need upgrades to support the project. Plus, the amount of commercial space might fall short of community needs.
Given these issues, city staff are advising against approval. But the developer isn’t waiting for a council verdict—they’ve already escalated the matter to the Ontario Land Tribunal, which can overrule local decisions. This move came after the council failed to act promptly. A pre-hearing is set for March 18, and staff need council’s green light to attend with legal backup.
The fate of Streetsville’s skyline hangs in the balance as residents, planners, and developers brace for the next chapter in this contentious saga.