The Vancouver Giants, a Western Hockey League team, announced a relocation to City Centre Arena in Surrey, British Columbia, starting with the 2030-31 season. This move will see the team make the new sports and entertainment facility its home, with completion anticipated by 2030.
The City Centre Arena is planned to be a central part of Surrey’s new entertainment district. It will feature an arena with an approximate seating capacity of 10,000 for various events, including hockey, concerts, and community gatherings. The development is also set to include a hotel with conference facilities, retail, office, and commercial spaces, all connected by an enclosed galleria.
A new home for the Giants
Ron Toigo, majority owner and president of the Vancouver Giants, described the decision as transformational for the organization, aiming for long-term success. He expressed enthusiasm for the new venue, highlighting its potential to change Surrey’s landscape and provide an enhanced experience for players, fans, and partners. The move also presents an opportunity to host premier events such as the IIHF World Junior Championship and the Memorial Cup.
The Giants will serve as the anchor tenant for the City Centre Arena, which will be located in the heart of Surrey City Centre. The team is expected to spend at least three more seasons in the Township of Langley before relocating.
Economic and community impact
Surrey Mayor Brenda Locke welcomed the Vancouver Giants as the future anchor tenant of the City Centre Arena and Cultural Event Centre. She stated that the announcement reflects confidence in Surrey’s future and aims to create a world-class venue that will benefit residents, attract major events, support local businesses, and foster a vibrant entertainment district in the city’s downtown.
The project, estimated to cost $360 million, is expected to generate approximately $2.4 billion in economic activity over the next decade and support 1,200 jobs in Surrey, with more across the province. The arena is a key component of Surrey’s City Centre Plan, initially approved in 2017.
The property for the arena will be acquired through a strategic land swap agreement. This involves the city acquiring a five-acre parcel at 10355 King George Blvd. in exchange for three city-owned parcels at 2750 194A St., 19165 39 Ave., and 12820-12842 96 Ave. This exchange is valued at $116 million on each side, according to a report.
Community discussions
Not all local officials have expressed full support for the project. Councillor Linda Annis questioned the partnership, noting the Giants‘ average attendance at the Langley Events Centre, which she believes has a capacity of about 5,500. She also raised concerns about the lack of private sector investment in the project, suggesting that such ventures should be privately funded rather than relying on taxpayer dollars.
Annis also questioned the final price tag of the project, drawing comparisons to other publicly funded projects that have exceeded budgets and faced delays. She suggested that the city should prioritize public recreation facilities for all neighbourhoods in Surrey. The funding for the arena was provided in Surrey’s 2026 budget.
The City Centre Arena and Cultural Event Centre will be built directly across from city hall and the Surrey Central SkyTrain Station.
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Source: chl.ca
