WHL hockey in Surrey? Business leaders reveal revitalization plan
Philip Aguirre, President of the Newton BIA, says a WHL franchise would inject some life into the community
The president of the Newton Business Improvement Association wants to bring the Western Hockey League to Surrey.
Philip Aguirre has laid out the BIA's 20-year plan for Newton, which includes a new arena and a hockey team the whole city can get behind.
"It's soon going to be the largest city in B.C. and I think it's about time that Surrey had its own team," Aguirre said.
"I think it's very feasible to have a Triple A Junior hockey team in Surrey that would compete against the Vancouver Giants. Bring them to Newton, the heart of Surrey, and congregate the entire community around that and use it for a catalyst to revitalize Newton."
Aguirre wants to transform Newton into an arts hub and entertainment destination for everyone who lives south of the Fraser River.
His vision includes light rail transit, park space with the potential to host outdoor concerts and a market district.
Major Challenges
Aguirre wants to inject some life into the corner of King George Blvd. and 72nd Avenue.
One of the challenges he faces is the strip mall on the southwest corner, which has become a notorious hangout for drug dealers.
The property, which is owned by Gateway Casinos, was left in tatters when the city denied a proposal for a $100-million casino.
Most of the restaurants and shops in the plaza boarded up their storefronts and left.
All that is left now is a bingo hall owned by Gateway, an insurance business, a dry cleaner and a dollar store.
Gateway Casinos appeared before council this week to discuss zoning issues in the hope of moving forward with development plans.
The company won't give any clues as to what those plans could be.
"Nothing is set in stone," said Gateway spokesperson Tanya Gabara.
"Obviously we have to clean up some housekeeping items while we work toward future options for this property."
Business owners in the area are optimistic Newton will go through the transformation the BIA has laid out in its 20 year plan.
"Businesses are all very supportive and community members are as well," said Melanie Minty, who owns a dance equipment company near the Newton Wave Pool.
"Newton can be anything the imagination of the population wants it to be. It's totally possible. Why not?"