Holland Casino starts building new Groningen venue after 2017 fire

Holland Casino has formally begun construction of a new venue at Businesspark Ter Borch, following the destruction of its former Groningen site in a fire in 2017. The state-owned operator held a ground-breaking ceremony at the site beside the A7 on 30 October 2026, attended by employees, construction partners and local officials.

Chief executive Petra de Ruiter said: “Today, together, we are taking an important step towards the future of Holland Casino Groningen.” She added: “Here, we are not only building a new building, but also a place where guests feel welcome and where our employees can work with pride.” Marcel Thijsen, mayor of Tynaarlo, said the development was significant for the region and could support the growth of Businesspark Ter Borch.

Holland Casino selected Businesspark Ter Borch as its preferred relocation site in 2023. When it chose the site in September 2023, the company said it expected the new venue to open in 2027. It has not disclosed the project’s construction schedule, expected opening date, capacity or cost. Holland Casino said the venue will focus on sustainability, accessibility and hospitality.

The previous Groningen casino, on the Gedempte Kattendiep, was destroyed by fire on 27 August 2017, and Holland Casino opened a temporary pop-up casino in the city in 2018. Separately, in September the Kansspelautoriteit (KSA) granted a follow-up online gambling licence for Holland Casino Online, valid from October 2026 to September 2031. Responding to that decision, de Ruiter said the company will continue to commit to a safe and responsible online offering, where player protection always comes first. She also said it remains essential that the regulated market is attractive enough to keep players away from unregulated providers, where supervision and protection are lacking.