MEC (or Mountain Equipment Co-Op) is leaving King West. While the long-time retailer won't depart until 2017, plans are already in place to move the location almost directly north to Queen St. at a site that's currently home to aneyesore of a parking lot at Soho St.

Well known for its green roof, MEC has occupied its King West location since 1998. There had beenrumours of a move to Queen West for a while, which the companyfinally confirmed today. The initial word is that the new location will be similar in size to the current King West store, at two storeys with an underground parking space.

The King West location will remain open during the move, so don't fret about access to backpacks, bike pumps, and hiking boots. There's no word on what the plans are for the interior of the new location, but one would imagine it'll be outfitted with a climbing wall and other interesting touches.