Demolition begins for proposed Surrey arena and entertainment district

Demolition has started on an old grocery store building at King George Boulevard and 104th Avenue in Surrey to make way for a proposed 10,000-seat arena and the city’s entertainment district development. Mayor Brenda Locke started the demolition, then shifted from a hardhat to campaign attire with the municipal election only weeks away.

Locke, who is seeking re-election this fall, said the proposed venue would offer sports and concerts for people of all ages. She is presenting the project as a major economic investment over the next decade, while critics say unanswered questions remain.

Coun. Linda Annis, also a mayoral candidate, said she expects the overall cost to reach nearly twice the original $360 million estimate. Annis said taxpayers should not be responsible for the cost, citing a lack of pool space that leaves families unable to enrol their children in swimming lessons.

Locke said the project is already moving ahead at full speed even if she is not elected mayor this fall. She said she is confident in the work completed so far and described Surrey as aggressive in meeting its timelines.

The proposed arena is intended to become the next home of the Western Hockey League’s Vancouver Giants. Team members attended the demolition event, along with part owner and local musician Michael Bublé.