Cannabis Store to Replace Surrey’s Iconic Round Up Café
A familiar corner of Surrey is about to take on a new identity. After more than six decades as a beloved eatery, the former Round Up Café site will now become a cannabis store.
During the July 14 council meeting, a split vote approved the rezoning of 10449 King George Boulevard—home to the once-iconic Whalley diner. The café, run by the Springenatic family for over 60 years, shut its doors in 2021 amid the pandemic.
The rezoning clears the way for a cannabis retail outlet proposed by Local Cannabis Co. The application covers three parcels (10449, 10447, and 10441 King George Blvd), all tied to the Springenatic family, who still own the site.
Council Split on Rezoning
Mayor Brenda Locke, alongside Councillors Rob Stutt and Gordon Hepner, voted against the plan. Still, the proposal moved forward after receiving third reading approval.
Interestingly, no public objections or support were voiced during the hearing, leaving council to decide solely based on the planning staff’s recommendations.
A Nod to the Past
Although the building will see a dramatic shift in purpose, the city’s planning report highlights a key piece of nostalgia: the Round Up Café’s historic neon sign. Now in city possession, the sign is expected to be included in a future development, ensuring a visual memory of the iconic diner lives on.
As one era ends and another begins, the location that once served coffee and comfort food will now offer a completely different kind of service.
Stay tuned to Surrey Speak for more on how the city’s landmarks evolve with the times.
