Toronto police closing off major downtown roadway ahead of expected convoy protest

Toronto police are closing off a stretch of University Avenue in order to protect Hospital Row ahead of expected demonstrations this weekend.

Police said in a tweet that University Avenue will be closed between College and Queen Streets to regular traffic and any convoys starting at 11:30 a.m. Friday. College Street will also be closed from University Avenue to Yonge Street.

“These closures could remain in place all weekend,” police said in a tweet. “We will continue to assess the situation and make any adjustments where needed. We will continue to update the public. Please avoid demo areas, where possible, as it is likely to cause delays.”

Hospital staff, workers, patients, family and people collecting patients will have access, police said.

The move comes with a convoy protest, possibly similar to that seen in Ottawa over the past few days, expected to take place in downtown Toronto starting tomorrow.