Adelaide Casino expansion gets green light
The expansion of the Adelaide Casino is going ahead.
The $330 million expansion includes three new bars, three new restaurants, VIP gaming rooms and a bigger boutique hotel than first planned.
It is proceeding after SkyCity Entertainment Group reached an agreement with the State Government.
Construction will start early next year. Completion is expected by the third quarter in 2020. Work is now underway on the adjacent Festival Centre precinct. This will see the tired plaza area completely transformed.
In a statement to the market, SkyCity Entertainment Group chief executive Graeme Stephens said the group was increasing the number of hotel rooms in the proposed development from 89 to 123, adding an additional floor to the expanded building.
“We believe there is demand for more quality hotel rooms in Adelaide from both domestic and international visitors. This provides a better-balanced product while also helping South Australia realise its full potential as a premium tourist destination,’’ Mr Stephens said.
He said some of the allocated budget would focus on remodelling the existing Adelaide Casino building in the historic Railway Station to match the new development, “while protecting its special character which will remain intact”.
The State government and SkyCity have negotiating this development for years.
The development has been mooted by the government as a key part of the Riverbank rejuvenation.
The SkyCity statement includes a statement from the premier Jay Weatherill welcoming the development.
“This re-development, and the wider development across the Riverbank Precinct is a welcome investment in the state,” Mr Weatherill said. “We look forward to offering both locals and tourists the opportunity to enjoy a world class entertainment precinct.”
Adelaide Casino general manager Luke Walker said the expanded casino would offer opportunities.
“I’m delighted Adelaide Casino will be joining the redevelopment of the Festival Plaza, which alongside the Adelaide Oval, the new Convention Centre, the upgraded Festival Centre, and the rest of the Riverbank Precinct will create a stunning entertainment space in the heart of the city,” Mr Walker said.
by Leon Gettler, July 27th 2017
Image supplied: Skycity
