Gaming centre under construction

MILLBROOK — Construction has begun in Millbrook on a new lottery gaming centre intended to modernize and improve on three smaller, existing sites.

“It does multiple things,” said Chief Bob Gloade of the 7,660-square-foot facility that is expected to be in operation by fall. “It consolidates our operations under one roof … it streamlines our operations in regards to our security, it improves the atmosphere. We have a much more secured and central location. It's better for both staff and patrons that come in.”

The band currently operates its Millbrook gaming centres from three separate locations because when it initially set up the community's lottery terminals, they were only allowed so many machines under one roof. About 50 machines are operating within the three sites but when everything is consolidated under one roof, Gloade said, there will be a total of 60 machines in place, with capacity for another 10.

The lottery terminals will be split between two separate sections of the building, with access to an outdoor smoking corridor from one side.

Gloade said plans for the new centre have been in the works for some time and it will be similar to a new gaming facility the band constructed in Cole Harbour a few years ago. Unlike the Cole Harbour facility, however, the Millbrook gaming centre will not offer alcohol sales.

Gloade said the interior décor will be more aesthetically pleasing and ATMs will be available instead of a cash counter.

The facility is also being constructed to enable staff to maintain all proper physical distancing requirements.