Surrey City Council has taken another step toward transforming its downtown core with a major new development — a 10,000-seat indoor arena that could replace the BC Lions’ training facility and anchor a new entertainment district in Surrey City Centre.
The vision, championed by Mayor Brenda Locke, aims to create a vibrant, mixed-use destination featuring sports, hospitality, and commercial amenities.
Entertainment District Takes Shape
Earlier this week, Council approved a staff-prepared framework that officially designates a new entertainment district in Surrey City Centre. The area generally spans from 107A Avenue to the north, King George Boulevard to the east, 102 Avenue to the south, and University Drive to the west.
The changes also align with provincial transit-oriented development legislation, achieved through an amendment to the City Centre Area Plan.
The entertainment district overlaps part of the Central Business District (CBD) established in 2019 but expands well beyond those boundaries to include new opportunities for retail, dining, and event spaces.
Arena to Anchor Mixed-Use Complex
According to a City staff report, the district will be anchored by a new 10,000-seat indoor arena — first announced by Mayor Locke in early 2024 and reaffirmed this spring after progress in design and planning.
The arena will form part of a larger mixed-use development that also includes:
-
100,000 sq. ft. of retail, restaurant, entertainment, and office space
-
A 175-room hotel tower with approximately 60,000 sq. ft. of ballroom, meeting, and conference facilities
-
A galleria-style promenade connecting the arena to surrounding commercial areas
City staff noted that combining these uses will strengthen the project’s long-term viability and create an active streetscape, avoiding the isolation often associated with standalone arenas.
“The co-location of the hotel and conference facilities with the arena will also allow for the arena floor to be used for trade shows and other conference events,” the report stated.
Proposed Location Revealed
For the first time, City staff have confirmed the proposed site: City-owned land next to the Chuck Bailey Recreation Centre at Tom Binnie Park, near the northeast corner of University Drive and 105A Avenue, just east of Whalley Athletic Park.
The site is currently home to the BC Lions’ training facility, which could be relocated if the project proceeds.