Surrey mayor-elect McCallum outlines arena and racing plans

Surrey mayor-elect Doug McCallum has stated that any future construction of a large-scale arena in the city must be funded privately, rejecting the previous administration's plan for a $360-million, 10,000-seat City Centre Arena. While former Mayor Brenda Locke maintained that contracts for the project were already signed and irreversible, McCallum indicated his council would conduct a forensic audit of the land deals associated with the arena.

As an alternative for sports infrastructure, McCallum proposed expanding the existing Bear Creek Stadium to reach a 10,000-seat capacity through low-cost additions. He also noted that a future SkyTrain extension along King George Boulevard would provide significant transit benefits to the area.

Additionally, McCallum welcomed a commitment from B.C. Conservative Leader Lorne Doerkson to support the rebuilding of Fraser Downs. McCallum intends to work with the province and Harness Racing BC to restore a full racing season in Cloverdale, with a goal of having horses back on the track by the fall 2027 meet. The city's role would involve rebuilding the racing oval and backstretch barns at the Cloverdale Fairgrounds.