Toronto Could Learn From Stockholm's Success

Toronto has been planning on redeveloping its waterfront for years, but the process is slow-moving. Across the world, a similar physical layout in Stockholm is boasting quick planning and successful implementation.

1 minute read

September 18, 2006, 5:00 AM PDT

By Nate Berg


Two cities on the waterfront -- Toronto, Canada, and Stockholm, Sweden -- have identified their locations as key opportunities for redevelopment and economic revival. Much about their physical layout is the same, but differences in planning have left Toronto far behind its Swedish counterpart in implementing a plan for its waterfront. Toronto's waterfront redevelopment is the subject of many discussions and little action, while development in Stockholm advances.

"The physical resemblance between the two waterfronts is striking. Both were once industrial harbours that fell into disuse. Both are also close to the heart of the city, easily reachable by public transit."

"The big difference lies in the attitudes each city brings to the project. Planning in Stockholm began in 1990 and construction is well underway. Already 7,500 people live in these new areas. By 2015, when complete, there will be up to 25,000 residents and 10,000 workers."

Saturday, September 16, 2006 in The Toronto Star

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