Torontonians know and recognize Hanlan’s Point, Canada's oldest continuous queer space, to be a safe, public, and precious place that has deep meaning and connection to Toronto’s 2SLGBTQ+ community.
Statement on Hanlan’s Point and the Toronto Island Park Master Plan
Statement on Hanlan’s Point and the Toronto Island Park Master Plan
We have seen the important concerns expressed about the Toronto Island Park Master Plan, and specifically the future of Hanlan’s Point that are being voiced online. We have reached out to the organizers, and look forward to working together to address these concerns. The Toronto Island Park Master Plan is not yet finalized, and there are opportunities to improve the outcome of this process.
We have had conversations with City staff, who have assured us that a built concert space is not part of the Master Plan but we need clarification on what is meant by festival space that is referenced in current documents and whether it reflects community feedback.
To that end, the Toronto Island Park Master Plan team is hosting an additional Public Meeting specifically about Hanlan’s Event Space on Thursday February 23rd at 5:30PM.
Sign up to participate in this virtual meeting at: HanlansFeb23.eventbrite.com
Through their iterative public engagement process, the City is looking for ways to expand the clothing-optional beach, to improve safety and access, and to approach decision-making that prioritizes ecological integrity and sustainability across Toronto Islands.
The Toronto Island Park Master Plan process is very much ongoing. As local City Councillors, we wish to see Hanlan’s Point celebrated and preserved as the safe, public, accessible, vibrant, and queer-friendly space it has been for many generations. We will continue to focus on advocating for, respecting, and honouring the history and members of the 2SLGBTQ+ community.
Find more information about the Toronto Island Park Master Plan at: toronto.ca/IslandMasterPlan
Ausma Malik
City Councillor, Ward 10, Spadina-Fort York
Chris Moise
City Councillor, Ward 13, Toronto Centre
Latest posts
The Amsterdam Bridge is back! I’m proud to have led a plan to restore this landmark on our waterfront, and you’re invited to celebrate its return.
The ice in the harbour has thawed and spring is coming to our waterfront! I’ve been working hard, with City staff and the team at Waterfront Toronto.
I am excited to kick off spring with milestones at some of our downtown parks over the next few weeks.
Last week, we approved the 2026 City Budget, just in time for Family Day. We were focused on making life more affordable for working families.
February is a short but busy month and though it may be cold outside, there are many reasons for us to gather in and celebrate our community.
This weekend in Toronto is a cold one so make sure you know what you need to do to stay warm. Warming centres and surge sites are open now and can be located here. If you see someone in need of help, please call 311.
It’s the start of a new year and at City Hall that always means it’s time for our annual budget process. Budgets are about priorities and yesterday, City staff launched their proposed budget, which continues our work to make life more affordable.
Today, the City approved the Mayor’s 2026 Budget, a budget that prioritizes ensuring that residents of Spadina-Fort York, and across Toronto, can thrive in our city. See more about key investments here.