Toronto’s long-running conversation about walkable neighbourhoods took a major step forward this week as city council voted to allow corner stores in all Old Toronto and East York wards, along with expanded permissions for retail on certain major streets across the city.

For supporters, it’s a return to a simpler, more community-driven way of living. For critics, it’s an unwanted invitation for noise, traffic — and more cannabis shops. And after weeks of debate, thousands of public comments, and fierce disagreement at committee, the final vote still came down with plenty of tension.

The Vision: Walkable, Local, Neighbourhood Life

The pitch behind the plan is simple:
Let people shop, eat, and grab a coffee right on their block — no driving, no long walks, no car dependency.

Coun. Josh Matlow, one of the strongest advocates, says the idea reflects the way Toronto used to function.

“When I moved into this neighbourhood 30 years ago, there were corner stores,” he said.
“People would love to have a grocer they can walk to… a café to meet friends. Local shopping improves quality of life.”

Even Mayor Olivia Chow backed the plan as part of a more livable, walkable Toronto.

“This is about making neighbourhoods complete and safer for families,” she said.
“A caring city in action.”

Many residents agree — especially those living in areas where the nearest coffee shop or convenience store is a 20–30 minute walk away.

But Not Everyone Wants a Corner Store on Their Block

The biggest concern?
Toronto doesn’t get to choose what kind of business opens in those newly allowed storefronts.

Residents fear:

• more cannabis shops

• alcohol retailers

• shroom stores

• late-night noise

• more traffic and garbage

As one resident put it:

“We don’t need another weed shop — five per street is enough.”

And others worry corner stores could quickly turn into bars or nightlife spots.

Even councillors who like the idea hate the uncertainty.

Coun. Parthi Kandavel explained the city has no legal authority to restrict certain private-sector uses — that power lies with the province.

Public Backlash Nearly Killed the Proposal

The initial version of the plan allowed storefronts deep inside residential areas, on quiet corner lots.

That idea did not go over well.

Coun. Stephen Holyday says the city logged over 3,000 public comments, most of them negative.

Residents cited:

• safety concerns

• noise and loitering

• smells and garbage

• strangers coming and going all day

The backlash was so strong, the original proposal was essentially scrapped at committee before reaching council.

What Council Ultimately Approved

After a lengthy — and at times fiery — debate, council voted 23–2 to:

✔️ Allow corner stores only in Old Toronto & East York

These areas already have a historical pattern of mixed-use neighbourhood streets, making the shift less disruptive.

✔️ Expand retail permissions on some major streets city-wide

Not residential corners — only main streets.

✔️ Give councillors the ability to opt corridors in or out

Matlow pushed for flexibility, arguing that if some neighbourhoods don’t want it, they shouldn’t be forced — but others should be allowed to experiment.

“Let those of us who want it show you the sky won’t fall,” he said.
“No zombie apocalypse — just better quality of life.”

What This Means for Toronto

Toronto isn’t about to turn into a European-style walkable city overnight — but this vote is a meaningful shift.

Expect:

• new cafes, bakeries, and convenience shops

• more local nightlife in specific areas

• continued debate about cannabis shops and provincial licensing

• more pressure on Queen’s Park to regulate “undesirable” uses

For now, Toronto’s move puts walkability back on the agenda, turning nostalgia for “the corner store era” into actual city policy — at least in part of the city.