Demolition begins at site of planned 10,000-seat City Centre Arena

Demolition has begun at the site of Surrey’s planned 10,000-seat City Centre Arena, which is intended to become the future home of the Vancouver Giants and a key part of the city’s emerging sports and entertainment district. On Thursday, Mayor Brenda Locke, council members, Vancouver Giants majority owner Ron Toigo and co-owner Michael Bublé marked the start of work as crews began dismantling the former Safeway building at 10355 King George Blvd.

The demolition and site-preparation work form the first phase of construction for the City Centre Arena and Entertainment District. The development is also to include a luxury hotel, conference space and residential development. Bill Aujla, president and CEO of the Surrey City Development Corporation, said the work marks a move from years of planning into action and is expected to deliver economic, cultural, sport and community benefits.

The project is anticipated to be completed in 2030. Its net estimated cost is $360 million, and it is expected to generate $2.4 billion in economic benefits over the next decade and more than 2,700 jobs across Surrey and British Columbia.