The venue has 275 rooms, a 96,000 square-foot casino, 2,200 slot machines, 140 gaming terminals, Great Canadian’s retail sportsbook and a 2,500-seater theatre, costing a reported $500m to build.

Meanwhile, the rooms in the hotel feature free Wi-Fi, a fridge, a secure safe and 55-inch smart TVs, as well as complimentary enclosed parking.

Matthew Anfinson, CEO of Great Canadian Entertainment, said: “We are committed to offering the very best in entertainment to destinations across Canada and continually heightening the experience for our guests while investing in the communities in which we operate.

“Pickering Casino Resort is a great example of our vision to introduce multi-venue attractions that anchor the very best in hospitality, dining, and entertainment while allowing us to create over 1,000 meaningful jobs and provide significant economic benefit for the Durham region.

“Great Canadian Entertainment, along with our partners, are very excited to invite everyone to experience this very special resort and look forward to sharing more news as even more dining and amenities open over the coming weeks.”

Anfinson himself was only recently named CEO of the company and succeeded Anthony ‘Tony’ Rodio – who retired from the role.

Chairperson of the Board of Great Canadian and Partner at Apollo Alex van Hoek said of Anfinson’s appointment: “On behalf of the Board of Directors, the management team and Great Canadian’s team members, we want to thank Tony for his outstanding leadership.”