In brief
On April 16, 2025, Ontario Premier Doug Ford confirmed that his administration will investigate a significant lease agreement made with a European wellness company to build a spa and water park on the Toronto waterfront. This decision follows a report by The New York Times that raised concerns about the company, Therme, allegedly exaggerating its expertise during the bidding process.
After years of deliberation, the government signed a 95-year lease last year with the Austrian firm to develop an artificial island in Lake Ontario near downtown Toronto. "Upon learning of these allegations, I directed our ministers to delve into the matter," Premier Ford stated during a media briefing. “We need to ensure that this contract holds up to scrutiny,” he added.The investigation stems from findings that Therme, which only has one wellness facility in Romania, misrepresented its capability by claiming it operated multiple facilities across Europe. The government awaits further details as Therme has yet to release a statement regarding the allegations.
