The firm of the architect responsible for designing the Ontario Science Centre has offered its services free of charge to the provincial government for roof repairs. Ontario recently announced that the science centre would be permanently closed due to concerns outlined in an engineering report regarding the state of the roof. The report indicated that some roof panels were at risk of collapse, leading to discussions about the need for a complete roof replacement, which could take several years to complete.
However, the firm of the late architect Raymond Moriyama has stated that closing the building is not necessary, and that the repairs needed are manageable. In a statement released today, Moriyama Teshima Architects expressed shock at the abrupt decision to permanently close the science centre. They have offered their architectural services pro bono to assist with the necessary repairs, which they believe can be completed without the need for a full roof replacement.
Infrastructure Minister Kinga Surma has cited concerns about the weight of snow on the roof as a potential risk factor, prompting the decision to close the science centre by the end of the day. Surma explained that the closure would allow employees time to move exhibits out of the building before the end of October, when the risk of snow-related damage increases. Prior to this closure announcement, the government had already been considering relocating the science centre to a redeveloped area on Toronto’s waterfront, which may still be in the works despite the current situation.
The government’s handling of the Ontario Science Centre’s closure has sparked controversy, with the firm of the architect behind the building advocating for a different approach to the necessary repairs. As discussions continue about the future of the science centre, it remains to be seen how the situation will unfold and what steps will be taken to address the concerns raised in the engineering report.