A city injunction restricting gatherings at Ridgeway Plaza, Mississauga, is slashing sales for local businesses as officials cite safety and resident complaints.
Mississauga Injunction Sparks Controversy
Business owners in Mississauga say their livelihoods are suffering after the city secured a temporary court injunction restricting large gatherings at Ridgeway Plaza, near Ridgeway Drive and Eglinton Avenue West.
Why the City Took Action
The Ontario Superior Court of Justice granted the injunction last Tuesday, following mounting complaints from residents about the plaza. Officials said the measure was timed to prevent mass crowds during Pakistan Independence Day on August 13–14 and Afghanistan Independence Day on August 19.
Impact on Local Businesses
Owners say the order has been devastating. Muneer Ahmed, operator of Nawab’s Legendary BBQ, reported a 40% sales drop compared to the same week last year. He said notice came only on August 12, leaving no time to adjust staffing or inventory.
Community Response to Enforcement
On the night of August 13, police placed yellow caution tape across parts of the plaza. Omama Mukhtar, general manager at Apna Farm grocery, said the tape gave the plaza a “crime scene” image, further discouraging customers.
Mayor Defends the Decision
Mayor Carolyn Parrish said the city acted out of necessity after repeated complaints about noise, unsafe driving, fireworks, and overcrowding. “We had no choice. People were being injured, property was being damaged, and residents couldn’t sleep,” she said.
Ongoing Dispute with Plaza Owners
The city said it attempted to work with the condominium corporations that own Ridgeway Plaza but received no cooperation. Requests for comment from the corporations have gone unanswered.
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