Historic Niagara Falls Power Station to Become Five-Star Boutique Hotel
Toronto Power Generating Station: Designed by architect E.J. Lennox, the building served as a hydroelectric power plant from 1906 to 1974. // Photo: Courtesy of Niagara Parks
(eap) Yesterday, Niagara Parks and development and operating consortium Toronto Power Hotel Inc. marked the official start of construction on the redevelopment of the historic Toronto Power Generating Station in Niagara Falls, Ontario, Canada. The public-private partnership will transform the site on the banks of the Niagara River, upstream of Horseshoe Falls, into a five-star boutique hotel with a spa and cultural and event facilities open to the public. Private investment amounts to more than 350 million Canadian Dollars (approx. 221 million Euros). Designed by Canadian architect E.J. Lennox, the building served as a hydroelectric power plant from 1906 to 1974.
“Today’s groundbreaking marks an important milestone in the transformation of the historic Toronto Power Generating Station. This remarkable project represents a significant investment in preserving one of Niagara’s most iconic heritage landmarks while creating a new destination that will enhance the visitor experience for generations to come. This is the embodiment of Niagara Parks’ mandate in action – protecting and promoting Niagara’s natural and cultural heritage while growing tourism,” said Niagara Parks Chair Graham Coveney.
Deltera Contracting Inc. has been commissioned as general contractor of the restoration and redevelopment project. The company is part of the Toronto-based Tridel Group of Companies, one of Canada’s largest privately held real estate and development groups. Society Developments is leading the construction, while Pearle Hospitality will manage and operate the property once it opens. Planning and design firm MT Planners and +VG Architects are also involved in the redevelopment. Both firms helped develop the original concept for the adaptive reuse of the historic power stations in Queen Victoria Park, including the Toronto Power Generating Station.
Plans include a wellness and social spa, four to five restaurants and several event spaces. Day visitors are set to have free access to indoor and outdoor viewing areas, as well as to a museum and an art gallery. The project is expected to create up to 900 new jobs in the region. Construction is due to be substantially complete in 2029, with the opening expected in 2030. ■
