Of the seven shortlisted cities left in the race to host Britain’s first regional casino, Sheffield seems to be doing the most soul-searching over the possible impact, good and bad, on local life. There are many opinions on the subject, some considered and some rephrasing mistaken beliefs about the gambling industry. In quite a few cases an in-depth study of the Gambling Act 2005 should be compulsory before an opinion voiced. So far, although there is plenty of media attention and lobbying, Sheffield residents have not been asked to express their opinion and there is call for a referendum.

As the arguments continue unabated, and the US experience frequently quoted, it is interesting to note how some communities in America – those in the less affluent areas – view the opening of casinos in their area. Mississippi is a case in point, where both locals and legislators moved with all speed possible to get the casinos up and running again following Hurricane Katrina. On Friday a new casino opens to the public in French Lick, Indiana – a long awaited event following 10 years of pushing for a revival of gambling.

Until the middle of the last century French Lick was a home to illegal gambling, but now the French Lick Springs Resort and Casino will be Indiana’s 11th licensed casino and its smallest. Once open it is expected to reverse the economic decline of Orange County, and the development has been widely welcomed. Often quoted by gambling opponents in Britain is the ‘fact’ that a large-scale casino opening in the region will prejudice the livelihoods of other businesses. Most French Lick residents see a different picture.

Changing laws, changing lifestyles, even changing climate will affect businesses one way or another, and they must adapt to the changes to survive. A new casino, particularly a large casino complex, brings more than employment in the gambling industry. Service providers such as hairdressers, retail outlets, restaurants, etc. should all see extra custom from the additional people employed in the area. That is not to say that the regional casino will bring no problems with it, and these have been much publicized, but those problems should not be allowed to overshadow the very real benefits for the majority. (E-10.31.06)

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