CBC – A development permit has been issued with conditions to Paragon Gaming to build an urban resort in downtown Vancouver.
The $535-million project includes two hotel towers, a conference centre, restaurants and a new and expanded location for the existing Edgewater Casino, with twice the floor space of the existing facility at the Plaza of Nations.
Opponents of the plan voiced their concern over gambling addiction in light of Provincial Health Officer Perry Kendall’s report on the health effects of gaming.
Two years ago, the city rejected any expansion of gambling at the proposed site next to BC Place Stadium.
In a statement, Vancouver Mayor Gregor Robertson said the city would honour that promise — the casino’s licence remains capped at 600 slots and 75 tables.
“Today’s decision by the Development Permit Board ensures that the proponent will have to align operations with the concerns raised in the recent Provincial Health Officer’s Report on Gambling,” he said.
he city’s director of planning, along with city council, will conduct a final review of the project before it can go ahead.
The issue of gambling addiction, the number of automated cash machines in the building, hours of operation and hours in which liquor can be served will be taken into consideration.
Furthermore, the building must be constructed to the highest environmental certification — Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design gold standard.
