THE massive interest in Blackpool by leading casino operators sends out a "strong message to the Government" according to the man leading the resort's bid to harness new gambling laws as a tool for regeneration.
Reg Haslam, the resort's planning chief and head of ReBlackpool, the organisation set up to manage the masterplan, said the support from some of the world's biggest companies was impressive.
Work begins in earnest today to sift through the 22 submis
sions from worldwide companies who responded to Blackpool's call for interest in building a regional casino.
Operators
As exclusively revealed in The Gazette on Saturday, operators including UK-based London Clubs International, South African giant Sun International, Las Vegas Sands – which owns The Venetian in Las Vegas – and British company Hilton Group are among those wanting to invest in Blackpool. It is believed Las Vegas-based Harrahs is also interested.
Whether or not any proposals will become a reality still depends on the Gambling Bill being agreed, after which Blackpool Council will choose a partner to work with. The total process could take about 18 months.
Mr Haslam said: "This demonstrates Blackpool can deliver if the legislation provides us with the opportunity.
"It is one reason why we have chosen this moment to go to the market place.
"Nothing is certain until the Bill receives Royal Assent and it is important that Blackpool informs the debate, now in the House of Lords, over the next eight weeks or so."
The Bill will have its second reading in the House of Lords next month.
