Former Wellington Square Mall has become a ‘strong example of redevelopment and economic renewal’
The Shoppes on TransCanada revival at 625 Trunk Rd. has been chosen as a recipient of the city’s 2026 Community Development Award.
The turnaround of what used to be Wellington Square Mall was chosen from 15 nominations by the community development award committee.
The former indoor mall has been transformed into an outdoor plaza of easy-to-access storefronts.
City council is expected to confirm the award at its next meeting on Monday.
The Community Development Award recognizes exceptional community development initiatives.
It’s presented each year to a local business or organization to highlight innovative ideas and inspire others to meet standards set by successful projects.
“The committee recognizes the outstanding transformation of the former Wellington Square Mall into the Shoppes on TransCanada, a vibrant plaza-style commercial destination in the east end of the city,” said a statement prepared for Monday’s council meeting.
“Once an indoor mall with significant vacant space, the site has been reimagined into a thriving retail hub that has restored vitality to the area, attracted new businesses, and supports the growth of the surrounding area.
“By converting a long-underused commercial property into an active and attractive retail destination, Shoppes on TransCanada is a strong example of redevelopment and economic renewal,” the statement said.
Retailers in the revitalized plaza include Giant Tiger, Noodlebox, IDA Drug Mart, Food Basics, DollarTree, Highlife Cannabis, WineXpert, The Chaat Indian Street Food, Juice on the Loose Vaporizers, Osmow’s Shawarma and Pizza Hut.