Canada/Austria: Therme Group to Develop New “Therme Canada” in Toronto
Therme Group, headquartered in Vienna and represented by a further three international offices, has been selected to develop a thermal spa complex on Ontario Place, a small artificial group of islands that belongs to Toronto and was once an entertainment and leisure hub. Plans already drawn up for Therme Canada call for a family-friendly facility with indoor and outdoor pools, water slides, a wave pool, areas for sports and wellness activities, and a lush botanical garden on an 8-acre (3.2-hectare) site. Also to be developed is a free-access public beach area on Lake Ontario and enhanced pedestrian and cycling infrastructure.
Dr. Robert Hanea, CEO of Therme Group, comments: “Therme is a unique, all-season experience: It’s a natural urban oasis where people can have fun, relax and unwind from their busy lives – boosting their physical and mental health. The future of Ontario Place will be defined by how successful it can be connecting people to the water. Through our technology and by engaging the community, Therme and our partners will add a new architectural landmark that will play a role in bringing more people back to the waterfront capturing the original spirit of Ontario Place from 50 years ago.”
Lisa MacLeod, Minister of Heritage, Sport, Tourism and Culture Industries, says: “Ontario Place is an iconic and valuable location. It’s redevelopment provides a unique, once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to deliver something incredible for the people of Ontario. Therme Group’s advanced, accessible approach to holistic wellness is popular throughout Europe, and will be a welcome addition to Ontario Place – bringing a world-class, family-friendly wellness and cultural attraction to our province that creates unforgettable experiences for all visitors, while providing good jobs, and playing a key role in supporting Ontario’s social and economic recovery.”
The construction of Therme Canada alone is expected to create more than 2,200 jobs; after completion there will be around 800 full-time jobs. Up to three million visitors are to be welcomed each year. Those responsible for the project currently expect a total investment of around 350 million Canadian dollars (approx. 236 million euros). (eap)
