Surrey, B.C. –The demolition of the former North Surrey Recreation Centre has officially begun, marking a pivotal moment in Surrey’s downtown revitalization. Approved by Surrey City Council in late 2024, the teardown clears the path for the ambitious Centre Block development—an urban mixed-use project set to redefine the city’s core.
“The North Surrey Recreation Centre has served the community for many years and it was a place where so many great memories were made,” said Mayor Brenda Locke. “While its demolition marks the end of an era, it also signals the beginning of an exciting transformation for the city.”
The Centre Block project, spearheaded by the Surrey City Development Corporation (SCDC), will feature two high-rise commercial towers, street-level retail, and a dynamic public plaza adjacent to one of Metro Vancouver’s busiest transit hubs—Surrey Central SkyTrain Station.
Designed to drive long-term economic growth, innovation, and community connectivity, the development is seen as a cornerstone in Surrey’s evolution into Metro Vancouver’s second downtown.
Demolition will occur in phases to ensure safety and minimize disruption: starting with Arena 1, followed by the lobby and gym, the aquatic centre, and Arena 2. The project is expected to be completed by August 2025.
“We recognize that this demolition marks an important transition for Surrey’s City Centre, and our team is dedicated to carrying out the process with the highest standards of safety and efficiency,” said Farhad Alizadeh, Director of Civic Facilities.
The work will include enhanced traffic management around the site, given its proximity to major transit connections. Funding for the demolition is covered under the City’s 2024 Corporate Capital Budget.
City officials will provide regular updates as the redevelopment progresses, with residents encouraged to follow the transformation of this historic site into a modern urban hub.