Officials expect new casino to help revitalize area’s economy
A new casino at the former Wheels Inn site is expected to revitalize the area, according to Chatham-Kent’s economic development department. Gateway Casinos & Entertainment Ltd. announced on Thursday it will build a new Cascades branded casino on land it is acquiring from Brad-Lea Meadows Ltd. at the northeast corner of Richmond Street and Keil Drive. Stuart McFadden, ChathamKent’s acting director of economic development, said the amenities are already in place to make it a success.
“I think it’s a great location. Great proximity to existing commercial businesses,” he said Friday. “I believe it’s going to be a catalyst to draw in other businesses who’d be interested in being close to that development.”
The casino will feature a mix of slots and table games, pending necessary government approvals and completion of the land acquisition.
The casino is expected to begin construction this spring, once provincial and municipal approvals are obtained.
“I expect the people at the (John D. Bradley) Convention Centre getting very busy,” McFadden said. “People are going to be very interested in booking there now that they have that entertainment. ““It’s just a boon for the entire community.”
Gateway is to announce more details on the size and scope of the development including new employment opportunities, food and beverage offerings and the investment in the local community for the new development. While the construction of the new casino is underway, Gateway Casinos Dresden will continue to operate until 2020.
The new complex in Chatham is the latest announcement by Gateway following news of the proposed expansion of the Gateway Casinos Hanover site and the $26-million renovation currently underway at Gateway’s Starlight Casino Point Edward. North Kent Coun. Joe Faas said there will be at least some negative impact to his small community of Dresden, but was pleased the facility is at least being built in Chatham-Kent.
“You have control over some things and some things you don’t,” he said. “When you’re bringing people to town, some of them may stop and buy gas or eat. They ’re not going to do that if they don’t have reason to come.”