The abrupt announcement of the Ontario Science Centre’s closure has ignited a firestorm of controversy, with staff members now publicly voicing their deep frustration over what they describe as “chaotic” and “disrespectful” handling of the institution’s final months. The iconic educational landmark, which has inspired generations of Canadians since 1969, will permanently close its doors on September 2, 2024—nearly eight months earlier than previously announced by the Ford government.
“We were blindsided completely,” said a veteran science educator who requested anonymity due to concerns about employment repercussions. “One day we’re planning programming through early 2025, and the next we’re told to prepare for shutdown in a matter of months. The lack of transparency has been stunning.”
The accelerated timeline has created significant operational turmoil according to multiple staff sources. The provincial government initially indicated the facility would remain operational until spring 2025, before the science centre relocates to its controversial new home at Ontario Place. However, in March, employees were informed of the September closure date, throwing carefully crafted educational programs and exhibits into disarray.
Staff discontent has been brewing beneath the surface since the initial relocation plans were announced in 2022, but recent developments have pushed tensions to a breaking point. Internal documents obtained by CO24 reveal growing concerns about the treatment of the facility’s approximately 300 employees and the fate of numerous scientific artifacts and exhibits.
“There’s been no clear communication about what happens to the collection,” explained another staff member. “Some of these exhibits represent decades of scientific knowledge and educational value. The haphazard approach to preservation planning is deeply concerning for anyone who cares about scientific literacy in Ontario.”
The Ministry of Infrastructure has maintained that the accelerated closure is necessary to prepare for the demolition of the current facility and construction of a new hospital on the site. Ministry spokesperson Sofia Martinez stated, “This timeline ensures the efficient transition of the Science Centre to its new, state-of-the-art facility at Ontario Place while allowing critical healthcare infrastructure development to proceed.”
However, critics, including opposition politicians and conservation groups, have questioned the necessity of the rushed closure. NDP MPP Jill Andrew, whose constituency includes the Science Centre, called the situation “emblematic of this government’s approach to public institutions.”
“First they starve them of resources, then declare them broken, and finally replace them with private-sector alternatives,” Andrew said during a recent press conference. “The Science Centre deserves better, its staff deserves better, and Ontario families deserve better.”
Financial implications of the early closure also remain unclear. The Science Centre typically welcomes over 500,000 visitors annually, with summer representing one of its busiest periods. The September closure means the facility will miss its final March Break period in 2025—traditionally a significant revenue generator.
As the countdown to closure continues, staff members are left wondering about their professional futures. While the government has promised positions at the new Ontario Place facility, many employees report receiving minimal details about the transition process, potential role changes, or interim employment options during the approximately two-year gap between facilities.
“Some of us have dedicated decades to science education,” said one department head. “Now we’re expected to simply trust that everything will work out, with almost no concrete information to base that trust on.”
As Ontario’s premier scientific institution prepares to close its doors at its original location, the question remains: In our rush to build the future, are we properly honoring and preserving the educational legacy that has inspired countless young Canadians to pursue careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics?
