Despite the government battle to get a Las Vegas style casino approved in the Gambling Act 2005, at least 47 local authorities around Britain have already expressed a desire to host it in their area. Whether this demand will get the government to rethink its policy and push for the granting of further super casino licences remains to be seen. Any region that is authorised to build a super casino would expect to see huge regeneration in jobs, building and revenue.

Blackpool, in the North West, has long been an odds on favourite to win selection for the prototype super casino, and last week the local Blackpool and Fylde College opened its casino training course. However, many councils around the country, supported by local MPs and much of the public, have continued with their feasibility studies and projects with the aim of making a bid, often in conjunction with major gaming companies from both the UK and abroad. Some regions, such as the West Midlands, have projects in close proximity. There are two super casino projects for Birmingham and another just down the road in Coventry.

In the North East three councils are making a bid – Newcastle-upon Tyne, Sunderland and Middlesbrough. In Wales Cardiff Council will make a determined effort to win approval from the Casino Advisory Panel, as will Glasgow in Scotland. Manchester, London and seaside resorts in the South East would also like to host Britain’s first super casino. The Casino Advisory Panel is expected to keep an open mind about its recommendation for the final location, judging each application on its merits for regeneration.
(E-02.06.06)

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