It was announced recently that the Canadian gambling industry may undergo further expansion anytime soon. Currently, the authorities of North Vancouver are considering the possibility of giving the green light to a casino venue in the region.
To be more precise, they defined it as a “gaming center” that is to be located at Lower Lonsdale’s Shipyards District.
If the idea for establishing a casino in the region becomes a reality, it will be the start of a new era in the history of North Vancouver. Gambling activities have been prohibited in the region for more than two decades. However, the members of the City Council voted and when the results were announced, it became clear that the idea for establishing slot machines in the area is not that distant anymore.
Actually, the question about the legalization of gambling activities has been on the agenda for a long time. Back in 2013, Playtime Gaming asked for permission to establish slot machines in Shipyards District, which is considered one of the fast developing areas.
The media reported that the proposal of Playtime Gaming included expansion of the retail sector as well as the hotel accommodation. As for the entertainment and cultural facilities, a public theater, green open spaces and an underground parking were among the proposed amenities. The availability of slot machines was suggested as well.
Now, it seems like Playtime Gaming is moving closer to have its project completed but the outcome is still uncertain.
Playtime Gaming is regarded as a company that has leading positions in the gambling sector of British Columbia; it manages six thriving community gaming centers. What make these centers different from the traditional brick and mortar casinos is the fact that they feature slot machines and electronic blackjack only.
Local officials will discuss the advantages and disadvantages the expansion of the gambling sector would bring.
They will review the impact the gambling activities would have on the economy and the communities in particular.
Actually, they announced that there were many questions worthy of discussing before a final decision is made.
Some of them are the economy benefits and diversification the gaming centers would bring and the chances they have to become a source of decent revenue. However, there is another side of the coin. The gambling legislation has the potential of increasing the criminal rate and raise different social issues.
As already mentioned, North Vancouver officials do not underestimate the benefits the gambling legislation would bring to the region. The majority of local authorities support the legislation but time will tell if the region will have its gambling sector expanded.
