Set between Highway 7 and McCowan Road, Markville Mall—officially CF Markville—sits at the centre of everyday life in Markham. It’s where teens meet after class, families tackle back-to-school, and new Canadians find brands they already know alongside ones they’re just discovering. If you’re mapping out a day at Markville Shopping Centre or deciding whether it’s worth the drive from Toronto, this guide gives you everything: how to get there, when to go, how to save money, where to eat, accessibility tips under Ontario rules, and the small, practical details that make a visit smooth instead of stressful.
You’ll find straightforward, on-the-ground advice written for a Canadian audience—no fluff, no vague generalities—plus a few field-tested strategies to make the most of your time. Ready to plan like a local? Let’s open the doors on Markville Mall.
Markville Mall at a Glance: Location, Identity, and Who It Serves
CF Markville is the flagship indoor shopping centre in Markham, Ontario, located near the southeast corner of Highway 7 and McCowan Road. The official address is 5000 Highway 7, Markham, ON L3R 4M9. The mall sits in a busy commercial corridor that pulls shoppers from Markham, Unionville, Scarborough, Stouffville, Richmond Hill, and even farther east along Highway 7.
What sets this mall apart among Greater Toronto Area shopping centres? The mix. Markville strikes a careful balance: fashion-forward but not intimidating, family-friendly without feeling like a playground, practical services beside aspirational brands. It’s compact enough to explore in a half-day, but large enough that you won’t cover it all in a single lap. Many people still call it “Markville Mall,” but you’ll see “CF Markville” on signage and online listings—the mall is owned and managed by Cadillac Fairview.
In short: if you live in York Region, this is the everyday mall that still feels special for big occasions.
A Brief History and Why CF Markville Feels So Current
Markville Shopping Centre opened in the early 1980s, when suburban malls were designed as all-in-one destinations for shopping, services, and winter-proof walking. Over time, like many Canadian malls, it went through waves of change as department stores merged, retailers came and went, and customer expectations shifted toward brighter spaces and more food options.
In the last decade, CF Markville has benefited from phased upgrades that modernized entrances, improved natural light, refreshed floors and sightlines, and elevated the tenant mix. The result is a space that reads “contemporary” without becoming sterile. Stores feel curated rather than crammed together. Wayfinding is simple. Seating areas and sightlines make the building easy to navigate with a stroller or mobility device. These details matter in everyday use; they also make CF Markville a reliable fallback when the weather turns too hot, too icy, or too slushy—pretty much every Ontario season has its moment.
How to Get to Markville Mall: Transit, Driving, Cycling, and Rideshare
Reaching Markville Mall is straightforward by car or transit. Below are the best options, with trade-offs noted so you can pick the one that fits your day.
By Car
Drivers usually approach via Highway 7 or McCowan Road. If you’re coming from Highway 404, exit at Highway 7 and head east; if you’re coming from Highway 407 ETR, exit at McCowan Road and head north to Highway 7. Entrances are located off both Highway 7 and McCowan, with additional access points from nearby streets. Expect heavier volumes on Saturday afternoon and most of December.
Traffic tip: During peak weekday rush hours, east–west traffic along Highway 7 can crawl. If you have flexibility, arrive before 11 a.m. or after 6:30 p.m. On winter weekends, give extra time for plowed-snow bottlenecks at lot entrances.
By Public Transit (YRT/Viva and GO)
Markville Mall is well-served by York Region Transit (YRT) and Viva rapid transit. Viva Purple and multiple local YRT routes run along Highway 7 and McCowan Road, with stops a short walk from the mall entrances. If you’re coming from Toronto on the TTC, you’ll typically connect to YRT at or north of Steeles Avenue. Riders carrying PRESTO cards can transfer across systems according to the current transfer rules—check the latest fare integration details on YRT’s and TTC’s official sites before you travel.
From the Stouffville GO line, Unionville GO Station is a quick bus ride to the mall along Highway 7. If you’re commuting in from downtown Toronto, a GO Train to Unionville plus a Viva or YRT bus is a reliable choice that avoids highway traffic. Sunday service is lighter; plan accordingly.
By Bike or On Foot
Highway 7 has improved cycling infrastructure in sections, and you’ll find multi-use paths connecting pockets of Markham. That said, the immediate mall perimeter still prioritizes cars, so plan your route in advance and use signalized crossings at Highway 7 and McCowan. Bike racks are typically available near main entrances. Bring a sturdy lock and consider lights during shoulder seasons when the sun sets early.
By Rideshare or Taxi
Uber, Lyft, and local taxis serve CF Markville. Set your pickup pin at a less congested entrance if you’re leaving during the holiday rush; otherwise, your driver may be stuck circling the nearest valet or food court doors. If you’re meeting an elderly relative or someone with mobility challenges, coordinate a pickup by the most accessible entrance and allow a few extra minutes.
Parking at Markville Mall: What to Expect and How to Save Time
Parking at Markville Mall is free. Lots surround the building, with multiple entrances and a mix of surface and structured parking depending on the section. The trade-off with free parking is that it can fill fast during peak periods.
Use these quick strategies to avoid a parking headache:
- Arrive early on Saturdays, especially in November and December. Before 11 a.m. you’ll find spots close to most entrances.
- On busy days, take the first spot you see in the outer rings instead of hunting for a “perfect” space near the doors. The walk usually takes less time than looping a congested aisle.
- If you’re shopping with kids or carrying bulky items, note your lot number or snap a quick photo of a nearby landmark. It beats wandering with armfuls of bags.
- Expect snowbanks in winter that slightly narrow lanes. Drive slowly and watch for pedestrians stepping out between cars.
EV charging availability varies by property and may change over time. CF properties across Canada have added more stations in recent years, but the exact count and network can shift. If charging is essential to your plan, check the mall’s official site or an EV charging app before you go.
Hours, Holiday Schedules, and the Best Times to Visit
Typical mall hours in Ontario hover around late morning to early evening on Sundays and extended hours on weekdays and Saturdays. Individual store hours can vary by brand. Around back-to-school and the holiday season, many retailers extend hours. For the most accurate schedule, check the CF Markville website (cfshops.com/markville) on the day of your visit.
Holiday note for Ontario: The Retail Business Holidays Act sets rules for operating on certain statutory holidays, including Christmas Day, Good Friday, Easter Sunday, Labour Day, and Thanksgiving. Malls sometimes operate on reduced hours or close entirely, depending on local exemptions and municipal bylaws. Don’t assume—verify hours before traveling, especially around long weekends and December holidays.
Best times to visit if you want breathing room:
- Weekdays before 3 p.m. are calmest. If you work flexible hours, a Tuesday morning shop is bliss.
- Sunday mornings are slower than Saturday afternoons, particularly outside the holiday season.
- During December, try weeknights after 7 p.m. for fewer crowds and restocked shelves.
What’s Inside: Stores, Services, and Experiences to Expect
Markville Mall is designed as a complete shopping day in one stop: apparel, shoes, tech, beauty, home goods, gifts, eyewear, jewelry, banking, wireless carriers, and more. Anchor department stores and national chains sit alongside specialty shops and pop-ups. You’ll also find a food court plus several cafes and quick-service spots for coffee or dessert.
Retail lineups change—Canadian malls are dynamic by necessity—so always consult the mall’s live directory if you’re hunting a specific brand. Here’s what the mix generally looks like and how to navigate it strategically.
Fashion and Footwear
The fashion mix at CF Markville balances mainstream and trend-driven. You’ll typically find brand-name denim, Canadian staples, activewear, and work-appropriate basics. Footwear runs the gamut from sneakers to winter boots and dress shoes. Because Markham’s population skews family-oriented and multi-generational, sizing ranges and modest options tend to be better represented than in small urban boutiques.
Shopping smarter:
- Watch for seasonal clearance about six weeks after a new season arrives. Winter coats and boots hit notable markdowns in late January and February, while spring styles drop in late April or May.
- Canadian return windows vary by chain. Keep receipts and tags until you’ve tried items at home with existing outfits. Stores enforce return policies more strictly in December.
- If you need hemming or light alteration, ask the retailer about in-house tailoring or recommended local services. The convenience often justifies a modest fee.
Tech and Electronics
Expect a concentration of mobile carriers, accessories, and device repair counters inside the mall, with larger electronics stores within a short drive along Highway 7. If you’re comparing phones or plans, mall kiosks are effective for real-time quotes across carriers. Bring proof of student, newcomer, or BYOD eligibility—targeted plans can be significantly cheaper if you can document your status.
Canadian buying context:
- Bring government-issued ID and a credit card for postpaid mobile plans. A soft credit check is typical in Canada.
- Warranty support is typically strongest when purchased from the manufacturer or an authorized retailer. Keep digital copies of receipts; stores can’t reprint them months later.
- On laptops and tablets, watch for back-to-school and Black Friday pricing. Many brands offer educational discounts with student or teacher verification.
Beauty and Wellness
From cosmetics and skincare to salons and brow studios, the beauty lineup is robust for the mall’s size. Staff are used to Canadian winter skin woes—dryness, windburn, and sudden chin breakouts after a week in a scarf—and can point you to hydrating formulas that actually cut through -10°C air. Look for fragrance-free testers if you’re sensitive, and ask for travel-sized versions when experimenting.
Pro tip: Many beauty retailers offer complimentary mini services or samples with purchase. Book weekday slots if possible; Saturdays fill quickly and wait times can balloon during gift-with-purchase events.
Home, Gifts, and Specialty
You’ll find a practical mix of home decor, kitchen gear, bedding, stationery, and gifting. If you’re outfitting a condo or student apartment, the mall’s combination of midrange home stores and specialty kitchen shops is perfect for picking up quality basics without resorting to big-box chaos.
Gift-shopping moves:
- Grab a few neutral greeting cards and small Canadian-made treats; they save you when an unexpected birthday or work milestone pops up.
- Ask about gift receipts during checkout. In Canada, gift receipts hide the price but allow an exchange or store credit.
- If you’re not sure on style, consider a CF SHOP! gift card valid across many stores in the mall. Check the card’s current terms and fees on CF’s official site before buying.
Everyday Services
Banks, currency exchange, wireless carriers, eyewear and optometry, travel clinics, photo and passport services, and quick-fix tailoring or shoe repair are commonly represented in Canadian regional malls. At CF Markville, you can usually bundle errands—renew glasses, grab skincare, pick up a phone case, fix a watch battery—in a single loop.
Passport and ID photos: Check federal photo requirements (lighting, dimensions, timing) on the Government of Canada site before you go; staff at mall photo counters are generally familiar with the rules, but standards are strict and get updated.
Food and Drink at Markville Mall: From Quick Bites to Sweet Treats
Markville Mall’s food options are built around a centralized food court plus stand-alone spots for coffee, snacks, and desserts. The lineup usually reflects Markham’s diversity—expect everything from bubble tea and Asian comfort food to burgers, shawarma, sushi, and salads. Vegetarian, vegan, and halal options are often available, but labeling can vary; when in doubt, ask for ingredients or allergen charts.
Eating well without overspending:
- Share larger portions if you’re casually snacking while shopping. Many food court meals comfortably feed two light eaters.
- Combo upgrades (drink and side) often add $3–$5. If you don’t need the drink, skip it and refill your water bottle instead.
- Coffee lines shrink after the lunch rush and just before closing. For the mid-afternoon slump, aim 2:30–4:00 p.m.
Canadian context: Expect to pay 13% HST on prepared foods in Ontario. Tipping is customary at sit-down restaurants (18–20% common in the GTA) and optional at counter-service spots. If a digital terminal suggests high percentages for a counter order, you can select “custom” or “no tip” without guilt.
Accessibility, Family Amenities, and Inclusive Services
Ontario’s Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA) sets standards that malls like CF Markville follow. Expect barrier-free entrances, elevators, ramps, accessible washrooms, and parking spaces close to doors. If you require a wheelchair or mobility aid, contact Guest Services—most Canadian malls provide complimentary loans with valid ID and a signed waiver, subject to availability.
For families, look for:
- Family washrooms with change tables.
- Private or semi-private nursing areas in or near washroom corridors.
- Stroller-friendly elevators and wide aisles.
- Play spaces are less common post-2020, but check the current layout for any soft-seating areas to regroup with kids.
Sensory considerations: Many malls now offer sensory-friendly hours or Santa/photo experiences with lower lighting and reduced noise during the holidays. If this is important for your family, monitor CF Markville’s events page or social channels for announcements and booking links.
Service animals are welcome. Under Ontario law, staff may ask whether an animal is required due to a disability and may request to see documentation if the need is not obvious. Pets that are not trained service animals are generally not allowed inside retail stores, though policy can vary by tenant.
Smart Budgeting and Savings Strategies at Markville Mall
You don’t need to chase every coupon to shop efficiently. Use a few consistent tactics and you’ll save more than the average person without running in circles.
- Sign up for email or app notifications from your top five brands. Canadian retailers often send one-time 10–15% welcome codes and periodic “members-only” sales.
- Stack cash-back apps like Rakuten or a credit card with rotating category bonuses. Even 1–2% back adds up, especially during big-ticket purchases.
- Price matching is common in electronics, athletic shoes, and some home categories, but rules are strict. Bring a live link to a Canadian competitor with the exact SKU in stock. Ask kindly and be ready for fine print.
- Ask about student, teacher, or newcomer discounts. You may need a Student ID, SPC card, or digital verification.
- Time your shopping: Back-to-school (late July–September), Black Friday/Cyber Monday, and Boxing Week are the deepest discounts across most categories in Canada.
Receipts and returns: Keep digital copies of all receipts (a quick phone photo works). In Ontario, retailers are not legally required to accept returns unless goods are defective or the store’s policy says otherwise—returns are a customer service policy, not a legal guarantee. During December, windows are often extended, but lines are long; go early in the day and bring ID if the refund is going back to a card.
Seasonal Events and Community at Markville Mall
As a community hub, CF Markville leans into the calendar. Expect décor and themed experiences around Lunar New Year, Diwali, Ramadan/Eid, Thanksgiving, and Christmas. Santa photos, charity gift-wrap stations, and pop-up markets are common in November and December. Back-to-school brings student promotions and tech demos. Mother’s Day and Valentine’s Day see a spike in jewelry, fragrance, and spa offers.
Most events are promoted on the CF Markville website and social channels. If you’re angling for a specific time slot—photos with Santa, for example—book the earliest release window. Late-season weekend slots go fast.
Safety, Etiquette, and Practical Policies
CF Markville maintains a code of conduct that’s broadly similar to other Canadian malls: no disruptive behaviour, no solicitation, no loitering in restricted areas, and respectful use of common spaces. Security and York Regional Police liaise regularly; assistance is easy to find if needed.
Photography: Personal photography is typically fine. Professional shoots (tripods, lights, commercial work) usually require permission from mall management. Always ask before photographing inside a store—many brands have strict policies.
Lost and Found: Visit or call Guest Services as soon as you realize something is missing. Provide specific details—model, colour, identifiable marks—and the times/areas you visited. If you’ve lost a wallet, call your bank to freeze cards and consider filing a non-emergency police report for insurance purposes.
Weather: In winter, salt and meltwater accumulate at entrances. Wipe boots to avoid slippery floors. If you’re carrying a toddler, take the extra few seconds to steady yourself—Ontario winter can be humbling.
Sample Day Plans: Make the Most of Markville Mall
Not every trip needs an itinerary, but a little structure maximizes a short visit and keeps kids happy. Here are three practical plans tailored to common scenarios at CF Markville.
Family Half-Day: Errands + Lunch + Treats
- Arrive by 10 a.m. Park near your primary errand (optical, bank, mobile carrier).
- Knock out the must-do tasks first—glasses pickup, school shoes, jeans—while the mall is quiet.
- Refuel at the food court by 11:30 a.m., beating the lunch rush. Split a large entrée between two kids and grab water refills for everyone.
- Give each child a small budgeted “fun pick” (trading cards, a keychain, or a small plush) and a 20-minute browse window.
- Finish with coffee or bubble tea for the adults, then head out before the peak midday crowds.
Date Night: Dinner, Stroll, and a Little Window Shopping
- Arrive after 6:30 p.m. when parking loosens. Start with a sit-down meal or casual shareables.
- Walk the loop with a to-go dessert. Pop into a fragrance or jewelry shop for inspiration.
- End with a tech-store demo or browse travel gear for your next long weekend. If the weather’s decent, cap the night with a short drive to Unionville Main Street for a quiet stroll.
Solo Power Hour: In, Out, Done
- Park at the closest entrance to your target store. Set a 45–60 minute timer.
- Go straight to the item (returns counter, size check, warranty fix). Skip impulse stops—make notes for a future visit instead.
- Grab a quick coffee on the way out. Check off one life admin task (bank, mobile plan question) if you have five minutes left.
Nearby Attractions: Turn Your Visit into a Markham Day Trip
Markville Mall is a convenient anchor for exploring Markham and Unionville. If you’re already in the area, consider adding one of these:
- Main Street Unionville: A postcard stretch of heritage buildings, cafés, and boutiques about 10 minutes west along Highway 7 and north on Kennedy. Great for photos, patio weather, and lazy Sunday walks.
- Toogood Pond Park: A calm loop trail with ducks, bridges, and accessible paths just off Unionville Main Street. Bring comfortable shoes.
- Markham Museum: A family-friendly museum on 25 acres with heritage buildings and rotating exhibits—ideal for school-age kids.
- Flato Markham Theatre: Check the schedule for concerts, dance, comedy, and community performances, usually a short drive from the mall.
- Markham Pan Am Centre: If you’re in town for a tournament or meet, the mall is a handy refuel spot between events.
For Visitors from Outside the GTA: Currency, Tax, and Mobile Basics
If you’re visiting CF Markville from out of province or abroad, a few Canadian-specific details help:
- Currency: Canada uses the Canadian dollar (CAD). Many retailers accept tap payments from international credit cards and mobile wallets. ATMs are widely available if you need cash.
- Tax: Ontario charges 13% HST on most goods and services. Canada does not offer a general tourist tax refund on retail purchases.
- Mobile: Consider a Canadian SIM to avoid roaming charges. Major carriers and flanker brands (often with better pricing) operate mall kiosks. Bring an unlocked phone and ID.
- Transit: PRESTO is the reloadable fare card used by YRT, TTC (Toronto), and GO Transit, among others in the region. Load funds at stations, some retailers, or online. Fare rules and transfers differ by agency—check current details before riding.
- Tipping: At sit-down restaurants, 18–20% is common in and around Toronto. For counter service, tipping is optional.
Sustainability and Amenities You Might Overlook
Modern Canadian malls, including CF Markville, have been upgrading lighting, HVAC, and waste management to reduce environmental impact. You’ll usually find recycling and waste sorting stations in food areas, water refill stations near washrooms, and LED-lit common spaces. These aren’t flashy changes, but they improve comfort and cut waste over time.
Don’t forget the small comforts:
- Free Wi‑Fi is standard in many Canadian malls; look for network details near Guest Services.
- Device running low? Ask a café if they have accessible outlets; many do, and a polite purchase goes a long way.
- Walking groups: Some malls welcome morning “mall walkers” before stores open. If you’re building a winter exercise routine, ask Guest Services about hours and rules.
Real-World Scenarios and Quick Fixes
Things go sideways. Here’s how to recover fast and keep your Markville Mall day on track.
- Lost your child: Find the nearest staff member or security guard immediately and provide a description. Most malls activate a child-locate protocol discreetly. Designate a family meetup spot at the start of your visit as a backup.
- Snowstorm hits: If you drove, clear your car fully before leaving to avoid fines and safety risks. Brush off lights and roof—flying snow is dangerous and can get you ticketed under Ontario’s Highway Traffic Act if it impairs visibility or causes debris hazards.
- Return without a receipt: Policies vary. Some stores will offer store credit at the lowest price in the last X days; others require a receipt. Expect to show ID. Be courteous—it helps.
- Device fails right before travel: Head to a manufacturer store or authorized repair kiosk. Ask about same-day turnaround and data protection. Always back up before handing over your phone if possible.
- Food allergy concern: Ask staff to check the allergen binder or ingredient list; most chains maintain one. For severe allergies, consider packaged options with clear labelling.
- Parking lot bump: Exchange information calmly. In Ontario, call police only if there are injuries, a suspected crime, or damages over the provincial reporting threshold. For minor incidents, document photos and file with your insurer.
Planning Checklist: A Smooth CF Markville Visit in 60 Seconds
- Check live mall hours and any event notices (cfshops.com/markville).
- Map your top three stops; note entrance closest to the first one.
- Bring PRESTO if using transit; check weekend schedules.
- Charge your phone and take photos of receipts.
- Pack a reusable water bottle; scout refill stations to cut costs.
- Set a budget for “fun picks” to avoid impulse overspend.
Why Choose Markville Mall Over Other GTA Centres?
The Greater Toronto Area is packed with malls: outlet-centric, luxury-focused, giant downtown destinations, and neighbourhood plazas. CF Markville’s strength is balance. It’s big without being overwhelming, family-friendly without sacrificing style, and easy to reach from multiple directions. If you’re in Markham or east of Toronto and want a single stop to handle clothes, tech, errands, and food, Markville Mall makes sense.
If you’re chasing a rare high-fashion piece or a particular flagship that lives downtown, you might need to head to Toronto’s core. But for most weekly needs—and plenty of wants—Markville Shopping Centre gets the job done with less stress.
Key Information Table
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Official Name | CF Markville (commonly called Markville Mall or Markville Shopping Centre) |
| Address | 5000 Highway 7, Markham, ON L3R 4M9 |
| Website | cfshops.com/markville |
| Transit | Served by YRT and Viva along Highway 7 and McCowan; short bus ride from Unionville GO |
| Parking | Free; multiple lots and entrances; busiest on weekends and in December |
| Accessibility | AODA-compliant entrances, elevators, accessible washrooms; mobility aids typically available via Guest Services |
| Food Options | Central food court; cafes and dessert shops; vegetarian and halal options vary by tenant |
| Gift Cards | CF SHOP! gift cards available; check current terms and fees online |
Final Thoughts: A Mall That Works for Real Life
Markville Mall is what many Canadians want from a regional shopping centre: practical, modern, and easy to use. It’s a place to get your jeans hemmed, your screen repaired, your glasses adjusted, and your caffeine fix—then wander into a store you didn’t plan on and come out with a small delight. That’s the charm: a functional space with enough surprise to keep you coming back.
Arrive with a short list, stay flexible, and work the simple strategies in this guide. Whether you call it CF Markville or plain old Markville Mall, it’s one of Markham’s sure bets—especially when the weather turns and you need a warm, bright, reliable place to get things done.
FAQ: Markville Mall (CF Markville)
Is Markville Mall the same as CF Markville?
Yes. “CF Markville” is the official name used by Cadillac Fairview, the mall’s owner and manager. Locals often say “Markville Mall” or “Markville Shopping Centre,” but they’re referring to the same place.
Where is Markville Mall located?
At 5000 Highway 7, Markham, ON L3R 4M9, near the intersection of Highway 7 and McCowan Road.
What are the mall’s hours?
Hours vary by day and season. Check the live schedule at cfshops.com/markville, especially around holidays and long weekends.
How do I get to Markville Mall by transit?
Use YRT or Viva along Highway 7 and McCowan. From the GO Stouffville line, ride to Unionville GO and transfer to a Viva or YRT bus. PRESTO is accepted; check current fares and transfer rules.
Is parking free?
Yes, parking at CF Markville is free. Arrive early on weekends for the best spots.
Does the mall have EV charging stations?
Availability can change. Check the mall’s site or an EV charging app before you go if charging is essential.
Are there good food options for specific diets?
Yes. You’ll typically find vegetarian and sometimes halal or gluten-aware options. Ask vendors for allergen information to confirm ingredients.
Is CF Markville accessible for wheelchairs and strollers?
Yes. The mall follows AODA standards with barrier-free entrances, elevators, and accessible washrooms. Guest Services often loans mobility aids with ID, subject to availability.
Can I take photos inside the mall?
Personal photos are generally fine. Professional or commercial shoots typically require permission. Ask before photographing inside individual stores.
Are pets allowed?
Only trained service animals are permitted inside most retail stores. Non-service pets are generally not allowed.
What’s the best time to shop to avoid crowds?
Weekday mornings and early afternoons are quietest. Sundays are calmer than Saturdays, outside the holiday season.
Does Markville Mall have a gift card that works across stores?
Yes. CF SHOP! gift cards can be used at many mall retailers. Review current terms and potential fees on CF’s official website before purchase.
What’s close to the mall if I want to add something to my day?
Main Street Unionville, Toogood Pond Park, Markham Museum, Flato Markham Theatre, and the Markham Pan Am Centre are all within a short drive.
Will stores price match?
Some will, especially in electronics and footwear, but policies vary. Bring a live link to a Canadian competitor with the item in stock and identical model details.
Do I need to tip at the food court?
Tips are optional at counter-service spots. For sit-down restaurants, 18–20% is common in the GTA.