BCLC has selected Victoria as the preferred location for a second gaming facility in the Greater Victoria region.
BCLC said it will develop a gaming facility to suit the market in Victoria, with the View Royal Casino remaining the primary facility in the region. The decision on the size and scope of the new facility will be based on proposed redevelopment plans for the View Royal Casino.
BCLC received submissions from Saanich and Victoria. The decision was based on community support, geographic, economic and demographic considerations.
“Our plan to serve the Greater Victoria market with better gaming and entertainment options in the region is moving forward,” president and CEO of BCLC Jim Lightbody said.
“It has always been our intention to significantly enhance the existing View Royal Casino with exciting new amenities and we are working with our service provider Great Canadian Gaming Corporation to fulfill that. In addition, we would like to introduce another entertainment option for adults and tourists in Greater Victoria through a new gaming facility that will provide accessibility and a different experience and that is why we selected the City of Victoria.”
An expression of interest process was launched to six municipalities in October 2015. BCLC received interest from the City of Victoria, District of Saanich, Township of Esquimalt, Esquimalt First Nation and Songhees First Nation. The District of Oak Bay declined.
A location hasn’t been released yet but some proponents have suggested Crystal Gardens as an ideal location.
