Gateway announces plans for three casinos in BC Canada, including two renovations and a new property in Delta.
Celebrating its 25th anniversary this year, Gateway Casinos and Entertainment Ltd. has been one of Canada’s most respected gambling operators for many years. In late 2016, it also became one of the largest, earning the rights to operate the north and southwest gaming bundles for the Ontario Lottery and Gaming Corp (OLG).
Since then, Gateway’s operations have doubled. Previously covering much of Western Canada, it now accounts for the majority of Ontario’s largest gaming facilities. The company now hosts 26 properties; 11 in British Columbia, 2 in Alberta, and 13 in Ontario. It’s also one of the country’s largest employers, boasting a payroll of 6,100 employees.
Just this month, Gateway has announced three major plans involving casinos in British Columbia. Current estimates total more than $83 million worth of investments. These include the relocation of one property, and renovations at two casinos in BC, Canada.
New Casino in Delta, BC
Earlier this month, Gateway CEO Tony Santo was thrilled to announce preliminary approval for the new casino in Delta, BC. The British Columbia Lottery Corporation (BCLC) ok’d the plan to relocate the current Newton Community Gaming Centre to an expanded location at the Delta Town & Country Inn.
“We are very proud to be making this commitment to Delta, where we will work together to create jobs and invest in the Delta economy through this new local entertainment destination,” said Santo.
“With our $70m investment, the proposed Delta casino and entertainment property will bring new and exciting gaming, dining and entertainment options to this rapidly growing community.”
Gateway’s next step is to present BCLC with design plans for the new casino. The gaming regulator must stamp its approval on that. Then, it will move on to the Delta City Council for final affirmation.
Renovating Two Casinos in BC Canada
In the first week of September, Gateway expressed intentions to renovate the Grand Villa Casino Burnbay. The company expects to invest $15 million into the project, including a complete make-over of the casino’s gaming floor, as well as the addition of two new restaurants.
Burnaby Mayor Derek Corrigan was thrilled by the news. He lauded the economic and employment benefits it will bring to the community.
“The Grand Villa and Delta Hotels Burnaby has become a very successful entertainment and accommodation venue in our city,” said Mayor Corrigan.
“I know that customers and visitors will welcome the many new attractions this renovation will enable – and that Burnaby citizens will enjoy both the new venues and the economic benefits and jobs the renovation will provide.”
The community of Kelowna is bracing for construction crews at their Gateway Casinos property, as well. The company said last week it will be investing $3.6 million to improve one of their smaller Canadian properties, Lake City Casino Kelowna.
Again, Gateway is focusing the renovation of the property on the casino gaming floor and enhancements to the dining experience. The casino’s general manager, Clarissa Pruden, confirmed the addition of two new restaurants, including a live sports bar and buffet.
“We’re looking forward to introducing these changes and exciting restaurants to our customers,” said Pruden. “We know that MATCH and The Buffet will also provide compelling offerings for new customers to come and visit us as well.”