Canada’s Casino Nova Scotia to Relocate from Downtown Halifax

Planned Move to Dartmouth Crossing

The Nova Scotia government has announced plans to move Casino Nova Scotia from its long-standing waterfront location in Halifax to a new site at Dartmouth Crossing. Great Canadian Entertainment will take charge of constructing, operating, and maintaining the new casino facility, which is anticipated to open by 2029.

Redevelopment Opportunities for the Current Location

The decision to relocate has been the result of extensive discussions, with Dartmouth Crossing chosen for its prime position as a retail and commercial center just across the harbor from Halifax. The site offers excellent highway access, nearby hotels, and consistent foot traffic, making it an ideal location for the casino.

The existing casino in Halifax will continue operations during the transition period. Meanwhile, the provincial government is actively seeking potential buyers for the current waterfront property. Thanks to specific licensing arrangements, redevelopment of the land will proceed without lease-related challenges linked to the casino. While an exact timeline is yet to be defined, officials anticipate that the sale process might take between one to one and a half years.

Great Canadian Entertainment has already acquired land near Dartmouth Crossing and is in the process of obtaining the necessary local permits. Both the company and the province, through the Nova Scotia Gaming Corporation, will jointly fund the construction and relocation, as well as maintain the supply of gaming equipment.

Advantages of the Dartmouth Crossing Location

Although the relocation offers strategic benefits, some have expressed concerns about the potential impact on Halifax’s downtown area. The casino has been an integral part of the waterfront since it first opened in 1995 and moved to its current dedicated building in 2000. It has played a significant role in supporting the city’s nightlife and tourism sectors by attracting both residents and visitors.

Government officials have reassured the public, emphasizing that the move is expected to benefit the Halifax Regional Municipality over time. They highlighted that Dartmouth Crossing already draws visitors from across the province, making it a logical site to maintain or increase casino patronage.

The province anticipates that this relocation will not adversely affect revenue. In the past year, casino operations in Halifax and Sydney collectively generated over $40 million, funding critical public services such as healthcare and education. Authorities expect these revenues to remain stable regardless of the casino’s location.