The YMCA of Greater Toronto has announced plans to open a modern new facility within Mississauga’s Square One Shopping Centre, bringing an essential community hub into one of the country’s most successful retail destinations. Scheduled to open in early 2027, the new Mississauga YMCA will be located in a large space that formerly housed Empire Theatres — a unit that has sat vacant for over a decade.
The new YMCA will be situated near luxury retailer Holt Renfrew, contributing to the ongoing transformation of the retail complex into a mixed-use, community-oriented district. The move represents a forward-thinking approach to urban development and community building.
From Silver Screen to Social Impact
The space being redeveloped had a long history as an entertainment venue. Originally home to Empire Theatres and acquired by Landmark Cinemas in 2013, the location ceased operations in 2014 and has remained empty since. Repurposing the former cinema into a community health and wellness centre illustrates a growing trend in Canadian retail real estate: adapting underutilized commercial space for socially impactful uses.
“The community has been eagerly awaiting this news,” said Lesley Davidson, President & CEO of YMCA of Greater Toronto. “We’re designing the new space to encourage social connection and engagement. We know the centre will remain a home away from home for members and participants.”
City Investment Secures Long-Term Community Access
Supported by $15 million in funding from the City of Mississauga, the relocation will ensure that downtown residents continue to benefit from YMCA programs for decades to come. The new facility will replace the current Mississauga YMCA at 325 Burnhamthorpe Road, while remaining within walking distance for most members.
“The YMCA has been a trusted partner in supporting the health and well-being of our residents for many years. I’m proud to have worked closely with City staff, the Mississauga YMCA, and Oxford Properties to make this a reality. As the Councillor for this area, I’m so pleased this new space will still be right in the heart of our downtown. It will continue to be a place where families can connect, children can grow, and people of all ages can stay active and be supported,” said John Kovac, Deputy Mayor and Ward 4 Councillor.
“With more than 12 million visits to our recreation facilities each year, it’s important that we continue to invest in spaces that bring our community together, and I’m thrilled to see this coming together.”
Supporting Oxford’s Vision for a Complete Community
Oxford Properties, which owns and manages Square One, is integrating the YMCA into its broader plan to reshape the shopping centre into the heart of a larger, master-planned neighbourhood known as Square One District. The 18-million-square-foot development will include residential towers, parks, civic spaces, and commercial offices — all linked to transit infrastructure like the upcoming Hurontario LRT.
“Welcoming the YMCA to Square One District is a proud milestone that symbolizes the area’s ongoing evolution into a forward-thinking neighbourhood,” said Sherif Masood, Head of Asset Management and Development, Canada, at Oxford Properties. “The Y is an integral community resource, and we’re thrilled it will be at the heart of Square One.”
The addition of the YMCA aligns with a national shift toward more diverse and inclusive uses of mall real estate — a move that supports long-term foot traffic and relevance in a rapidly changing retail landscape.
Ongoing Services and Smooth Transition
While construction begins on the new site, the YMCA confirmed that members will continue to access services at the current location. The organization emphasized continuity of service throughout the transition, ensuring that programming and community support are not disrupted.
In Mississauga alone, the YMCA provides a wide network of services beyond health and fitness, including:
- Employment programs at two local centres
- 34 licensed childcare centres
- Seven day camp locations
- School-based nutrition programs
- Various youth leadership and community programs
True to its charitable mission, the YMCA also offers financial assistance to ensure accessibility for all.
Evolving Role of the Canadian Shopping Centre
The addition of the YMCA to Square One exemplifies how shopping centres are being reimagined to meet broader community needs. Once reserved solely for retail and entertainment, malls are increasingly hosting health clinics, educational centres, co-working spaces, and now community-based institutions like the YMCA.
This type of integration not only brings value to the real estate but also fosters inclusive urban development that responds to the everyday lives of local residents. For Square One, the YMCA strengthens its role as a regional hub for life, work, and leisure.
Square One District: Mississauga’s Downtown Reinvented
Square One District is one of the largest urban redevelopment projects in Canada. When complete, it will be home to over 35,000 people across 18,000 housing units, all connected by new transit infrastructure and community facilities. Anchored by Square One Shopping Centre, the district is shaping up to become Mississauga’s vibrant downtown core — one that prioritizes walkability, sustainability, and inclusive design.
The relocation of the YMCA to this emerging neighbourhood underscores a larger vision: that successful cities of the future must blend commerce with community, and retail with relevance.
Does that mean the Cheesecake Factory has decided to not open at Square One? The rumours circulating for a few years now was that The Cheesecake Factory would open their second location at Square One and would utilize part or all of the old cinema space. Although it’s great the YMCA is opening here I am saddened if the plans for Cheesecake factory are dead.