Surrey City Council has given the green light to significant updates in its City Centre Plan, with a notable proposal for a new 10,000-seat arena in a designated entertainment district. The Plan, initially approved in 2017, has undergone multiple revisions over time. Mayor Brenda Locke expressed her enthusiasm for the latest staff recommendations, highlighting the city’s rapid growth.
Locke emphasized the city’s expanding population of over 723,000 residents, emphasizing the need to create a vibrant and modern urban environment. The proposed entertainment district, slated to be developed on city-owned land near the Chuck Bailey Recreation Centre, will feature the expansive arena, 100,000 square feet of commercial space, a hotel, and a galleria.
Council members Gordon Hepner, Doug Elford, and Harry Bains voiced their support for the proposed changes, emphasizing the potential economic and developmental benefits for Surrey. Hepner highlighted the inclusion of retail, dining establishments, bars, and high-rise structures, while Elford underscored the necessity of revitalizing the downtown area.
However, Councilor Mike Bose raised concerns regarding the financial implications of the project, urging transparency regarding costs and ongoing expenses. He stressed the importance of taxpayer input in decision-making processes related to major investments. Similarly, Councilor Linda Annis echoed these sentiments, cautioning against a taxpayer-funded arena and advocating for essential community infrastructure like parks and recreational facilities.
Locke defended the project, emphasizing the need for strategic investments in the city’s future. She asserted that constant opposition to capital projects could hinder Surrey’s progress. Despite differing opinions within the council, Locke remains optimistic about commencing arena construction in 2027.