ONTARIO; The City of Mississauga has obtained a temporary court injunction to stop two large-scale, unsanctioned events at Ridgeway Plaza, citing ongoing public safety concerns. The Ontario Superior Court granted the order Wednesday, compelling the condominium corporations that own the plaza to take stronger measures to prevent nuisance gatherings.
Authorities say the injunction targets planned celebrations for Pakistan Independence Day on August 13–14 and Afghanistan Independence Day on August 19, each expected to draw over 3,000 attendees to the west-end site near Eglinton Avenue West and Ridgeway Drive.
City officials warn that previous gatherings have led to late-night noise, street and parking lot racing, illegal fireworks, fights, and other disturbances. Since the plaza’s 2022 opening, they’ve received numerous complaints about large crowds, dangerous driving, and public disorder.
Peel Regional Police confirmed they have an operational plan to enforce the court order, which runs from noon August 13 to 2 a.m. August 15, and from noon August 19 to 2 a.m. August 20. Officers will be on-site to manage crowds, enforce bylaws, and may close the plaza or restrict nearby streets if needed. Non-compliance could lead to arrests.
Under the injunction, plaza owners must regulate vehicle flow, install parking barriers, hire security and paid-duty police, and control pedestrian traffic to prevent nuisance gatherings.
The city emphasized that it is not targeting specific groups but is acting to protect public safety. Officials say multiple attempts to work with the plaza’s owners have failed, leaving legal action as the only option. Ward 8 Councillor Matt Mahoney expressed support for local businesses but stressed that safety must come first.
Signage will be posted at the plaza informing visitors of the court order and restrictions.
