The Halifax casino is about to have a new home after 25 years.

An agreement has been signed with casino operator Great Canadian Entertainment to build a new Casino Nova Scotia right next to IKEA.

In an interview with Acadia News, Finance Minister Tim Halman said it is an exciting move.

“This just makes sense,” said Halman. “Dartmouth Crossing has great transportation networks, great hotels, great businesses, great restaurants. It’s a great location for a new casino.”

When asked what makes Dartmouth Crossing different than the waterfront that also has all of those things, Halman said a new facility is required.

“[Great Canadian Entertainment] will build this facility. It’s keeping up with the times,” added Halman. “When we talk about growth in Halifax, we’re talking about all of HRM, Dartmouth, Bedford, Sackville and Spryfield.”

“Go to Costco on a Saturday and I swear half the province is there. This is a great location. I don’t think anyone would argue against that.”

The current building on the waterfront will be listed for sale in the coming weeks and Halman said he doesn’t want to speculate what will go there.

“Like any decision government makes, will always make a balanced decision in the interests of Nova Scotians and the best value for that property,” explained Halman.

In a statement on their website, CEO of Great Canadian Entertainment Matthew Anfinson says, “We recognize the province’s strong desire to unlock the full value of the property where our Halifax operation currently sits, and we are pleased to move forward with an exciting, refreshed vision for gaming entertainment in the Nova Scotia market.”

The company says for the time being it will be “business as usual” until the planned opening in 2029 and today marks a “major milestone” for not only the casino but the province as well.

The Sydney casino will remain where it is.

Nova Scotia made $41.6 million from casino operations in Halifax and Sydney last year.