When Gateway Casinos relocated their Playtime Casino operation, adjacent to Hanover Raceway, to its current location in the east end of the HBBS Carriage Hall building, the plans began for a multi-purpose banquet hall and conference space.
Operators, Hanover Bentinck and Brant Agricultural Society (HBBS), are in their 160th year as an Agricultural Society and Hanover Raceway celebrated its 60th anniversary in 2024. According to its website, Hanover Raceway also runs a Simulcast Lounge located at the back of Playtime Casino next door to the Race Track, with wagering on tracks from all over North America. The Casino itself features approximately 290 slot machines along with many ‘gaming’ e-tables.
The tender proposal for the new banquet and conference space received five bids for the project. Domm Construction of Ayton was awarded the renovation contract for the 16,000 square foot space plus updates to the exterior facade. Construction began January 8th and is expected to take approximately 32 weeks.
The new space with a total capacity of 460 persons, includes a state-of-the-art kitchen and can be separated into three smaller spaces to accommodate events or meetings of any size. The administrative offices will provide a reception area, dedicated office space for staff, and board room.
In a media release, it was explained that “…progress was slowed by the effects of Covid 19 on the planning process. However, the Board was able to move forward with Strategic Planning in 2022, which confirmed the desire to complete the renovation and to operate the facility as a conference centre and meeting space. A Hall Committee was struck in March, 2023 to proceed with the project, chaired by Directors Natasha Chalmers and Dean Leifso. Nelson Dawley Engineering of Hanover was contracted to complete the engineering and architectural drawings, with the assistance of John Rutledge Architect and McLellan Vitella Engineering.”
Hanover, Bentinck & Brant Agricultural Society (HBBAS) President, Adam Chalmers, said, “We are excited to see the project move forward. It has been a long time coming, and the community will benefit from having an event facility available in the Town of Hanover.”
Is is anticipated that the newly renovated facility will hold its grand opening celebration in late 2025 or early 2026.
