There’s a lot of uncertainty in London when it comes to plans for expanded gaming, but one possibility could involve the removal of some key buildings at The Raceway at Western Fair District.
The Progress Building and eventually the grandstand could be demolished to accommodate necessary parking for a planned casino and hotel complex.
According to an article by the London Free Press, Gateway Casinos and Entertainment plans on investing $140 million into a two-phase project that would include 1,200 slot machines and 46 table games. The second part of the equation would be building a 125-room hotel and constructing a smaller grandstand.
Nothing is set in stone, however, as talks continue between a number of parties including local politicians.
Rendering of the proposed casino development at the Western Fair District
“We have a fair that’s operated for an extended period of time. It’s historically important, culturally important,” Coun. Phil Squire said. “It’s clear to me when I look at these pictures, at the parking, that the fair couldn’t operate as it currently operates.”
But Keith Andrews, senior vice-president at Gateway, said the proposal actually would open up more parking at the site by tearing down the Progress Building and eventually the grandstand.
“We believe there’s ample parking in the area,” said Keith Andrews, senior vice president at Gateway Casinos and Entertainment.
There’s still uncertainty regarding whether or not the casino complex project will even take place at the current location. Politicians and Gateway officials have both expressed an interest for public input on the matter.
(With files from the London Free Press)
London is spending MILLIONS
London is spending MILLIONS to save a walking bridge, because it's been a part of the city for ages! I can't see them getting rid of the fair.