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Gambling concerns as casino bid goes in
ADDICTION experts are being drafted in to halt a possible explosion in problem gambling in Blackpool.
Town hall and health chiefs are spending a reported 80,000 a year on an army of counsellors to advise people of the dangers of falling into a money trap if the resort wins the casino race.
Talks have already taken place with charity GamCare to set up facilities for addicts – a full year before the Government announces the location for the UK's first Las Vegas-style "super" casino.
The news comes ahead of today's unveiling of detailed bids submitted by the 27 local authorities, including Blackpool, which are vying for the licence.
Coun Eddie Collett, cabinet member for regeneration and tourism, said: "Blackpool Council has already had many constructive meetings with GamCare and RIGT (Responsibility in Gambling Trust) and recognises the need to liaise closely with these agencies.
"Extensive research clearly shows the benefits of a regional casino would far outweigh any negative aspect. Thousands of new jobs and a revitalised local economy would be created.
"However, we do appreciate that, for a small minority of our residents, gambling treatment may be necessary.
"In Blackpool, the Primary Care Trust will be driving forward work with GamCare and our local voluntary sector partners to establish such services and facilities."
But one opponent to the resort's bid to become a casino mecca today attacked the move.
Coun Steven Bate said: "It's an admission the council know a casino will lead to problem gambling.
"I've been trying to get answers from this council on this subject for five years.
"In Nevada, near Las Vegas, seven per cent of the population have a gambling problem. In Detroit, it's near 10 per cent of those who live near three big casinos.
"And this casino in Blackpool is meant to help areas of deprivation – but it's precisely the people in these areas with time on their hands who will be using slot machines."
Blackpool's 20-page bid was submitted to the Casino Advisory Panel last week.
It is hoped the venue would bring in an estimated 2,500 to 3,400 jobs and generate up to 5.5 million tourist visitors every year.
It could attract upwards of 359.3m investment from the private sector.
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Weather for Blackpool
Saturday 26 May 2012
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Temperature: 13 C to 27 C
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