A development permit has been issued with conditions to Paragon Gaming to build an urban resort in downtown Vancouver, Canada.
The $535m project includes two hotel towers, a conference centre, restaurants and a new and expanded location for the existing Edgewater Casino, with twice the floor space of the existing facility at the Plaza of Nations.
Opponents of the plan voiced their concern over gambling addiction in light of Provincial Health Officer Perry Kendall's report on the health effects of gaming. Two years ago, the city rejected any expansion of gambling at the proposed site next to BC Place Stadium.
In a statement, Vancouver Mayor Gregor Robertson said the city would honour that promise - the casino's licence remains capped at 600 slots and 75 tables. "The decision by the Development Permit Board ensures that the proponent will have to align operations with the concerns raised in the recent Provincial Health Officer’s Report on Gambling," he said.
