Steve Wynn, the successful creator of new casino concepts in Las Vegas, is reportedly critical of the Integrated Resort concept envisioned by the government of Singapore. The casino aspect of the resorts sanctioned for Marina Bay and Sentosa Island has always been a minor part of the entire development; the government stated its views on the matter at a very early stage in the selection process, and it seems a little late in the day to be quibbling.

There is also the complaint that there is too much control by government officials but, again, the Singapore Government has long been known for its ‘nanny’ approach towards its citizens, and its ongoing involvement in the project should hardly come as a surprise. The third comment from Steve Wynn apparently is that integrated resorts with casinos are for adults and not for children. These may all be valid points made about casino resorts, and Steve Wynn is the expert, but the vision of Singapore’s government is different and entails an integrated resort for families with children as well as adult gamblers.

Las Vegas may have abandoned marketing itself as a family destination in the early 1990s but the world has moved on since then. Gambling is now more socially acceptable and non-gaming revenues play an increasing role in maintaining company profitability, including in Las Vegas. Families can and do enjoy time spent at integrated resorts around the world, and the casino part of the operation is no less successful because of it. Well planned features such as the wave pool and water slides at Sun City/Lost City, great food and entertainment, sports facilities, attractions, etc. can make a casino resort a wonderland for young children and a fun place to be for teenagers.

Whether Singapore will accommodate a change in plans to suit Steve Wynn, even down to altering the road plan at Marina Bay, is debatable. Perhaps the completion of Wynn Macau and newly opened Wynn Las Vegas is enough to keep him occupied for the foreseeable future, particularly as the Singapore government wants its Request for Proposals submitted by September, deemed by Wynn to be too soon. Having seized the baton, disregarding all opposition to casinos at home, it seems that the Singapore Government is making a dash for the finish line. (E-05.18.05)

© Copyright 2005 CasinoCompendium



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