A group of local residents in Etobicoke are attempting to halt plans to demolish a neighbourhood Cineplex movie theatre to make way for a proposed mixed-use community on the site. 

The massive theatre complex at The Queensway and Islington Avenue is set to be redeveloped and replaced by a high-density complex community comprised of ten towers and two mid-rise buildings ranging from 7 to 46 storeys. 

Designed by WZMH Architects for Talisker Corporation, the proposed community would also include a central 4,347 square metre public park and two blocks of privately-owned-publicly accessible spaces. 

At risk of losing a neighbourhood hub for entertainment, south Etobicoke residents have joined forces to launch a petition in an effort to save the movie theatre from being demolished. 

In the petition, which is addressed to City Council and the Toronto City Planning Division, local residents paint the movie theatre as a vital "entertainment cornerstone" for the community. 

"But now, there's a proposal to tear it down for yet another major multi-tower condo complex with no indicators that the movie/entertainment options would be protected or rebuilt. Our city needs more than just condos, it needs spaces for entertainment, culture, and community-building," the petition reads. 

The campaign notes that local residents will lose their ability to drive sufficiently in and around the area, and the TTC will have a difficult time handling the massive influx of new commuters. 

"Our doctor's offices will not be able to care for the level of people that will need care," the petition continues. "We will become a 'concrete jungle,' right here in small Etobicoke. These 10 massive buildings, as well as the four to five new condo buildings already being built on Queensway, between Islington and Royal York, equal disaster for our small neighbourhood." 

The site that currently houses the 20-screen Cineplex Queensway Cinemas and VIP previously served as a home to multiple restaurant chains and a bank branch, which were all demolished to make way for the upcoming Verge Condominiums by RioCan Living. 

"The purpose of this petition is not just to save Cineplex Cinemas Queensway (Etobicoke) but also to send a message to city leaders that Toronto needs to prioritize making our city more livable," the campaign reads. 

"They need to promote building activities that enhance the life quality of residents, rather than focusing exclusively on condos for investors.  This is important for a vibrant and dynamic city like ours." 

The petition has already amassed over 2,500 signatures since being posted last week.