Finance

Inside the $50 Million Transformation of Gateway Casino London: What’s Coming Next!

2024-11-18

Author: Jacques

Introduction

As the excitement buzzes throughout the Gateway Casinos London in the Western Fair District, it’s hard to believe that deep renovations are underway at this bustling entertainment hub. While guests enjoy the thrill of slot machines and table games, just behind the scenes, a major $50 million reconstruction is in full swing, moving into its second phase.

Rob Mitchell's Insights

Rob Mitchell, the spokesperson for Gateway Casinos, expressed pride in their operation. "There is no service interruption. Customers are not noticing anything," he noted while walking through the lively gaming floor, which continues to operate seamlessly amid renovations. This smooth transition is bolstered by the dedication of the construction team, led by Robert Principe, who highlighted, "Every project has hiccups, but we have been so fortunate; this job has gone perfectly."

Transformational Changes

As part of the transformation, slated to be completed by 2026, the casino will officially be rebranded as Cascades Casino, enhancing the customer experience with a significantly larger gaming space. The expansion will see an increase of 2,040 square meters (about 22,000 square feet), augmenting the total area to a whopping 7,400 square meters (approximately 80,000 square feet). When finished, the casino will boast 891 gaming machines, a notable rise from the existing number, and expand the table games from 12 to possibly 18, featuring popular options like Blackjack, roulette, baccarat, and the Asian game of sic bo.

Milestone Completion

Mitchell emphasized the importance of these changes: "We really have wind in our sails at this point. The completion of Phase 2 is a major milestone. Our customers will experience the breadth of the new gaming floor just before Christmas!"

Construction Progress

Construction kicked off in August 2023, and as the second phase was initiated in May, a myriad of enhancements has come to life. From decorative panels enhancing the atmosphere to new drywall and ceilings taking shape, every detail is meticulously planned to create a brand new gaming experience without disrupting current patrons.

Challenges in Transformation

Yet with this significant overhaul, challenges persist. Principe noted the difficulties involved in retrofitting an older building, requiring him to cleverly navigate various space constraints. “It’s been a major challenge. We have had to flatten ducts to maximize ceiling space," he explained, reflecting on the transformation from an office environment to an expansive gaming floor.

New Dining Options

Beyond the gaming revamps, the expanded casino will also introduce exciting dining options. Guests can look forward to Match Eatery and Public House, which will have a heated patio open for more than just the warm summer months, and the addition of the Lucky Chow Noodle Bar, conveniently located near the gaming area.

Vision and Collaboration

Interestingly, the plan for such an expansive casino wasn't always set in stone. Initially, in 2018, Gateway proposed a $75 million casino venture on Wonderland Road but faced hurdles in securing lease agreements at the fairgrounds. However, under new leadership by Reg Ash in 2019, a fruitful lease agreement was formed with Western Fair District, resulting in the expanded casino plan.

Partnership Impact

"This collaboration has been immensely supportive and has led to a stable base for year-round operations," Ash stated, highlighting the synergy between the casino and the fairgrounds. This partnership not only enhances the entertainment landscape of the area but is also geared towards revitalizing the neighborhood with vibrant activities and events.

Economic Contributions

In terms of employment, the Gateway Casinos London currently employs over 240 staff members, with plans to hire an additional 100 workers following the expansion. The casino also holds significant financial implications for the city of London, contributing $5 million in revenue in 2023 and $93.7 million since 1999.

Conclusion

As Gateway moves forward with this ambitious project, the question remains: What else can Londoners expect from the newly revamped Cascades Casino? With such exciting developments on the horizon, anticipation fills the air, making it clear that this is just the beginning of a new adventure in entertainment for the city!