North York’s Bathurst Manor Plaza closing down

Uptown landmark, host to local businesses, shuttering doors after over 50 years

After decades of serving the surrounding area, Bathurst Manor Plaza closed for good on July 31, marking the end of an era. 

The developer, the Biddington Group, submitted a proposal for the property, which is currently under review by the City of Toronto. 

The original proposal for 221–245 Wilmington Ave. was brought forward in 2006 but was opposed by residents who took issue with the scale and density of the design. The latest proposal calls for 288 stacked townhomes and 10,000 square feet of retail space. 

Many residents have pushed to see more retail on the site. However, Ward 10 councillor James Pasternak said the developer has refused to put in additional retail, and argued most stores have moved to Rimrock Road, just across from Wilson Heights. 

“[They’ve said] retail will not work in that location anymore,” said Coun. Pasternak. 

Alessandro DeRosa and Sam Cossidente, owners of Man About Town, have served customers at the plaza for 30 years.

The two said they were given six months to find somewhere else to set up shop and lament leaving.

“This was a one-stop shopping plaza,” said Cossidente.

Coun. Pasternak said the fate of the plaza changed in 2004 when Sunnybrook produce store closed its doors. 

“When Sunnybrook closed down, the plaza never really recovered. The debate since then has been, could the plaza owners have brought in a new anchor tenant or not?” said Pasternak. “They said there were no takers, but the local community said there could’ve been if they worked harder at it.” 

Alongside several other shops, Man About Town has found a new home at Rimrock Plaza at Allen Road and Rimrock Road. 

Uri Hazan, owner of King David Pizza, first opened at the plaza in 1997. He is uncertain as to whether he will relocate.

“I’ve been looking in the area, but so far no success,” he said. 

The Biddington Group was unavailable for comment. 

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