Gateway Casinos and Entertainment is ready for the next step when it comes to its London operation. The official groundbreaking ceremony of Starlight Casino London is about to take place over the upcoming weeks by the end of January. The CA$75-million new casino complex is about to see the beginning of its construction phase very soon at Wonderland Road South.
This step has been highly-anticipated on a regional level. The casino operator is ready for its expansion and everything positive coming with it. London is about to see a well-rounded casino complex managed by the leading casino operator away from Western Fair District. Construction of the premium location is about to commence by the end of January, with projections of an official launching ceremony in the early spring of 2021.
Casino Gaming Comes to London
The upcoming weeks are about to see the final touches of the ground preparation at Wonderland Road South. This would ensure that the groundbreaking ceremony goes smoothly and the next phase gives the expected results. London is eagerly expecting the new casino complex, as it would support the host community with regular gaming revenue allocations, as well as new work opportunities.
Coun. Paul Van Meerbergen, representing Ward 10, pointed out that the project has been delayed by the negotiation process coming to a halt in 2018, but this did not discourage Gateway Casinos. It could be recalled that the casino operator could not come to a mutually beneficial plan for action with the previous Mayor, which delayed the entire project and called for a change of plans.
The original plan envisaged a casino adjacent to Western Fair District, which was expected to boost the local horse racing scene while introducing a wide array of gambling opportunities to the region. Gateway Casinos wanted an independent casino location with its signature brand, as this fitted well in its grand scheme and portfolio. Rob Mitchell, Gateway Casinos Spokesperson, revealed more about the project.
Controversy Surrounds the Project
He pointed out that the spirit of vintage Las Vegas is about to make its way to London, Ontario, as the new complex is about to bring this theme to it. Starlight Casino London would welcome its players in a world of gambling and premium entertainment, while it also serves them premium cuisine. There would be 900 slot machines sprinkled, as well as 40 table games.
As for the employment opportunities, some 1,000 locals would find their new workplace there, for a boosted employment market. Projections are that the new casino complex is about to amass CA$7 million of gaming revenue and tax allocations. The new venue is also about to place London on the map of the entertainment industry, making it both a gaming and family-friendly location.
Existing slot operation at Gateway Casinos London at Western Fair District would be relocated. Highway 401 is also projected to make traveling there much easier. The summer of 2019 saw City Council hold a crucial vote that ended up showing 9-4. Locals had previously pointed out that Starlight Casino London should be subjected to public consultation. Mayor Ed Holder said that such a step would have added several more weeks to the already extended casino topic and it was skipped.