The History of the stores at Steeles
The Shops on Steeles and 404, situated at the intersection of Steeles Avenue East and Don Mills Road in Markham, Ontario, is a compact community shopping destination comprising approximately 70 stores. While it features a handful of chain retailers, the mall primarily hosts an array of independent boutiques and specialty shops. Formerly anchored by Sears Canada, which transitioned from a full-line department store to a Sears Home furnishings and appliances outlet before ultimately closing its doors in April 2017, the vacated space has since been occupied by Bobby’s Liquidation Outlet, offering discounted merchandise.
How Will It Look in the Future?
Developers Lifetime Developments and Knightstone Capital Management have ambitious plans to revitalize a struggling 70-store mall. Their vision: a thriving, mixed-use community. This master-planned project would transform the site into a high-density neighborhood with homes, shops, and offices all within walking distance. Improved pedestrian and cycling infrastructure, along with better public transit integration, aim to boost connectivity within the area. The success of this project, however, hinges on its ability to breathe new life into the aging mall and foster a vibrant community – whether it can achieve this remains to be seen.
For more details about the proposal, click here.
