Surrey Mayor Brenda Locke announced on June 30, 2026, that the city will build a 10,000-seat sports and entertainment arena, with the Vancouver Giants hockey team as the anchor tenant. The project, estimated at $360 million, is expected to be completed by 2030.
Arena Details and Location
The City Centre Arena and Cultural Event Centre will host major concerts, cultural events, and sports games. The location has shifted from the originally planned Tom Binnie Park in Whalley to a five-acre parcel at 10355 King George Blvd., currently a parking lot for a closed Safeway store. The site was acquired through a land swap involving three city-owned parcels.
The new arena is situated in Surrey's downtown core, across from City Hall and the Surrey Central SkyTrain Station, and is expected to kick-start an entertainment district. The development also includes a luxury hotel, conference space, and housing.
Economic Impact and Partnership
Mayor Locke said the project is projected to generate $2.4 billion in economic benefits over the next 10 years. The funding was included in Surrey's 2026 budget. The city's for-profit real estate development company, Surrey City Development Corporation, will work on the project.
“We are so, so very thrilled to welcome the Giants as one of our partners in this project,” Locke told reporters. “This is a major vote of confidence in Surrey, and our vision for an arena and broader sports culture and entertainment district.”
Vancouver Giants Relocation
The Vancouver Giants currently play at the Langley Events Centre but plan to relocate to Surrey once the new arena opens. Majority owner and president Ron Toigo said, “We’re a Surrey team, so we’re going to look at modifying the jersey to include Surrey in it in some capacity.”
Bill Aujla, CEO of Surrey City Development Corporation, stated, “Bringing together this new parcel of land, with experienced parties to build, operate and tenant this new 10,000-seat arena, is going to unlock significant opportunities for the city.” He could not provide a timeline for construction, saying negotiations are ongoing.
Political Context
The project has been contentious, particularly for opposition councillor Linda Annis, who will face Locke in the October election. The new arena is expected to compete with other Metro Vancouver venues.
