Natural area will see big changes in the heart of Mississauga

A large natural area in the heart of Mississauga is getting a bit of a makeover as conservation authorities seek to better protect it for future generations.

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

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

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

The end result, officials say, 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 the online project description.

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 add 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.”

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

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 last year 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.”