Large natural area to be protected for future generations in Mississauga

A final plan to better protect a large natural area in the heart of Mississauga for future generations is expected to be in place by next year.

The area, which spans more than 740 acres along Cooksville Creek and also includes residential/business neighbourhoods, is being given a makeover by officials with the City of Mississauga in collaboration with the Region of Peel and Credit Valley Conservation.

Work on the project began last fall and will continue throughout 2024, Mississauga and CVC officials said in an online project update/description.

Since late 2023, some 1,000 residents and representatives from local organizations and community groups have provided feedback to project leaders during the first round of public consultation.

The response helped officials prepare a draft plan for the massive project, which is now moving into a second public feedback phase.

“They shared important insights into what they value about their neighbourhood as well as ideas for future actions,” project leaders said of the initial consultation process. “We’ve used this feedback to prepare a draft Action Plan” which consists of five main goals and some 30 actions proposed for the area.

Moving forward, officials want to hear once again from members of the public, who have until Aug. 2 to complete an online survey.

“If you live, work or play in the neighbourhood, we want to hear from you,” project officials said. “We are seeking your input to help us strengthen the Action Plan. The final action plan will be released in 2025.”

In carrying out the work, they added they’re also seeking the collaboration of local residents, businesses, community groups and partners, non-governmental organizations and local leaders.

The end result, officials said, will be a Sustainable Neighbourhood Action Program that better protects the health of the natural area bordered by the CP Rail line to the north (north of Dundas Street East), the QEW to the south, Confederation Parkway to the west and Cliff Road to the east.

“The city aims to develop an action-oriented plan, making Cooksville Creek and the surrounding neighbourhood more sustainable and ready for a changing climate,” officials said in an earlier online project description.

Map shows area targeted for improvements.

They noted the area near the major creek that’s been identified for upgrades includes:

• homes and businesses
• schools
• places of worship
• transit hubs
• neighbourhood parks and gardens
• community gathering spaces
• a network of valleylands along Cooksville Creek

Describing it as “a mature urban area,” officials added it also presents “natural areas and community assets that we can protect and enhance, a lively and active community ready to engage in climate action, and many opportunities for environmental restoration and retrofit.”

Part of the overall restoration effort also includes a plan to dramatically increase the size and connectivity of parks in the Cooksville area to make sure a fast-growing City Centre population has access to adequate green spaces down the road.

Mississauga officials said earlier it has become clear “…that Mississauga’s existing downtown parks will not be able to support the growing population over the next 20 years.”

As such, the city has invested in significantly expanding park space in the Cooksville neighbourhood “to provide better access to green spaces and address the parkland deficit.”

Cooksville is located just minutes south of the downtown core/Square One area on Hurontario Street.

“Parks are important. They promote physical activity, mental well-being, provide leisure and recreational spaces and help with climate change,” city officials said earlier. “Parks also provide a safe place for communities to connect, enjoy the outdoors and be active.”

Aerial image shows the area around Cooksville Creek that’s targeted for improvements to better protect it for the future. (Image: City of Mississauga)