A sod-turning ceremony at Hanover Raceway has marked the beginning of construction for a new banquet and convention centre.
Raceway General Manager Gord Dougan says the nine million dollar, 30 thousand square foot facility is a long time coming.
He says the dream began about six years ago.
Dougan says the 2-storey structure will be able to accommodate trade shows and wedding banquets for up to 600 guests.
The as-yet unnamed facility is scheduled to be open in November, 2012, however, bookings for the place will begin this January.
Dougan says 20-jobs, full and part time will be created.
Hanover Mayor Kathi Maskell says it’s an exciting day for Hanover to soon have a state-of-the-art facility.
The new build is located behind the Hanover Slot Facility — where the old tennis courts and St. John Ambulance facility used to be.
Dougan says one of the reasons for the build is that it will be unique to the area and they hope it attracts young people to the sport of harness racing.
He says unfortunately their fans are more of an older demographic and they’re hoping if the new facility is used, young people will also enjoy the harness racing that goes with it and will become future fans.
