Today is the deadline for applications for the new casino licences authorised under the UK’s Gambling Act 2005. Seventeen casino licences are to be allocated around the country, eight small, eight large and one regional ‘super’ casino, with selection depending on factors such as area regeneration. It is the one licence for a casino with a minimum 5,000 sq m of customer area and up to 1,250 Category A slot machines that is causing the most interest, and the bidding process has already led to arguments and acrimony around the country.

In Birmingham the council’s decision to back a bid by the National Exhibition Centre with MGM Mirage sparked fury from the rival Birmingham City Football Club project with Las Vegas Sands. Brent Council has met opposition from some of its own councillors over its application for the super casino licence for Wembley. Blackpool, thought by many to be the front runner in the contest for Britain’s first super casino, submitted its application yesterday on what it called ‘a momentous day’. Leeds and Wakefield Councils are at loggerheads since Leeds apparently reneged on an understanding that it would not compete against a Wakefield bid for a licence in West Yorkshire.

The submission of formal proposals to the Casino Advisory Panel (CAP) for the new casino licences will be followed by a period of assessment. CAP must recommend to the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport the areas where the casinos would be best located according to criteria laid down by the government. The locations chosen by the Panel must satisfy the need for the best test of social impact, to include areas in need of regeneration and ensure that a casino is wanted in the area. Examination and evaluation of the submitted proposals will take place over the summer and the recommendations will be provided to the Secretary of State by the end of 2006. (E-03.31.06)

© Copyright 2006 CasinoCompendium



>>> return to archives
>>> return to frontpage