Planning amidst diversity, the challenges of multiculturalism in urban and suburban greater Toronto

Abstract

This dissertation explores the varied ways in which demographic changes from immigration are challenging traditional planning practice in Canada. The research is tied together around three themes: diversity, planning and citizenship. These themes provide the means to examine the impact of ethnocultural diversity on participation and belonging as seen through local decision making. Focussing on the experience of the Toronto area, the redevelopment of George Brown College in the urban community of Kensington, and the development of retail condominiums (or Asian malls) in the suburban community of Markham are used as case studies.