Surrey's arena plan faces reversal if Linda Annis wins mayoral race
Surrey First candidate proposes scrapping the 10,000-seat arena for a conference centre and performing arts venue instead.
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The 10,000-seat arena under construction in Surrey City Centre could be scrapped if Linda Annis wins the mayoral race. The Surrey First candidate and sitting councillor is pledging to cancel the $360 million project and redirect the effort toward a 1,000-delegate conference centre and a 2,000-seat performing arts venue at the same location.
Mayor Brenda Locke's Surrey Connect party approved the arena agreement with the Vancouver Giants in June 2026, following a bidding process. The city set aside $200 million in its 2026-2030 capital plan for the project. Preliminary construction and site preparation work began in early September at the 5.1-acre former Safeway site immediately east of SkyTrain's Surrey Central Station.
Annis has been promising the arena cancellation since her September 2025 campaign launch, reiterating it in mid-September 2026. Surrey First argues the arena "puts taxpayers' money at risk" and says the city should instead prioritize improving neighbourhood recreation facilities. The party also proposes a $1.8 billion broader package including more police officers, free recreation access for children and seniors, and zero residential or business property tax increases for 2027.
Surrey First frames the difference this way: a conference centre draws delegates for three days of sustained spending, while a hockey game or concert lasts roughly three hours. The arena complex was designed to include a luxury hotel with approximately 175 guest rooms, conference space, and residential uses, intended to support creation of an entertainment district.
What would the city do with the $200 million already set aside for the arena if Annis cancels it?
How much would the conference centre and performing arts venue cost, and how would they be funded?
What obligations exist with the Vancouver Giants and Wesgroup Properties if the arena is cancelled mid-construction?
We'll update this story as answers emerge.
The facts
How much is Surrey's arena project costing?
The 10,000-seat arena under construction in Surrey City Centre has a budget of $360 million.
What would Linda Annis replace the arena with if elected?
Linda Annis proposes replacing the arena with a 1,000-delegate conference centre and a 2,000-seat performing arts venue at the same location in Surrey City Centre.
When did construction on the Surrey arena begin?
Preliminary construction and site preparation work began in early September at the 5.1-acre former Safeway site.
What does Surrey First's broader campaign platform include?
Surrey First's $1.8 billion platform package includes more police officers, free recreation access for children and seniors, and zero residential or business property tax increases for 2027.
