Gateway Casinos’ latest renovation project is finally underway, and that means big things for London’s Western Fair District.
The company announced last week that construction has officially begun on its $50-plus million-dollar overhaul of Gateway Casinos London. As expected, several changes are coming to the facility, but perhaps none bigger than its new name.
Keeping in line with its other Ontario casino properties, Gateway Casinos London will now feature the “Cascades” brand across its exterior. It will also employ a new centralized entrance.
“The development of the Cascades Casino at Western Fair District will be great for London, customers will benefit from new and expanded entertainment and food experiences,” said Reg Ash, CEO of Western Fair District in a release. “Everyone will benefit from the enhanced economic impact for London and region through jobs and visitors to our city.”
Interior upgrades to focus mainly on gaming and dining experiences
Several extensive upgrades are coming to the facility, including an expanded gaming floor (growing from 70,000 to 84,000 square feet) and overall remodel designed to turn the space into a modern gaming and dining experience.
Gateway London’s General Manager Darcy Romanin said the project will also bring additional tables and two new restaurants. Match Eatery and Public House will join Chow Lucky Noodle House as the casino’s headliner dining options.
Notably, the former will be separated from the casino floor to ensure access for customers of all ages. Gateway’s signature restaurant brand will also feature a heated patio and entertainment stage for local musicians.
The revamped Gateway Casinos London gaming floor will house 891 slot machines and 18 live gaming tables, which will surround a newly installed centralized bar.
Renderings for the floor also included space for a potential Ontario sportsbook. However, there is no information to suggest who the operator may be.
Investment in casino seen as reinvestment in London
Following a tour of the renovations, Councillor Susan Stevenson, who represents London’s Old East Village, shared her excitement over the possibilities that the project can bring to her district.
“Most importantly, we want to be a regional destination. We’ve already got what’s happening at 100 Kellogg [Lane]. This is a perfect next step,” Stevenson told CTV News London.
For reference, 100 Kellogg Lane is London’s thriving entertainment complex of restaurants, festivals, art shows, and much more.
A few years back, Gateway was planning to build a new casino on Wonderland Road South after talks regarding its lease agreement at Western Fair fell through. However, the company pulled the plug on that idea and decided to remain at Western Fair for the long run.
Renovations not expected to interrupt casino customers
While construction will overlap with regular casino hours, Romanin says the work should go largely unnoticed by customers.
How so? Gateway will divide the near 27-month project into five phases. Doing so will limit any potential disturbances to patrons occupying the gaming floor.
The project is expected to create more than 100 jobs and 150,000 employment hours to meet its late 2025 timeline.
