Toronto reviewing potentially hazardous areas in wake of propane explosion

Stuart Green, a spokesman for Toronto Mayor David Miller, said Monday that city staff have been asked to review all similar zoning areas to identify any other facilities that may be operating close to residential communities.

"I've asked city officials to provide me with an analysis and recommendations on what the City of Toronto can do through our zoning power in order to ensure that neighbourhoods are safe and remain safe when businesses such as this operate within the boundaries of the city," Miller said at a news conference.

Thousands of residents were forced to evacuate a north Toronto neighbourhood early Sunday after Sunrise Propane Industrial Gases exploded shortly before 4 a.m.

Many are angry that the plant was allowed to operate so close to their neighbourhood.

Green says old municipal bylaws permitted the plant to operate in the area, and that all facilities with chemicals or gas must receive provincial approval.