Blackpool casino plans supported

Blackpool sees a super casino as central to its regeneration

Blackpool's bid to build the UK's only super casino has been backed by the North West Development Agency (NWDA).

Only one pilot casino will be built, after the government backed down on plans to build eight, in order to save the Gambling Bill.

The NWDA said Blackpool was its chosen location as it would reap the greatest economic benefits.

Steven Broomhead, NWDA chief executive, said the casino would secure the town as "a UK premier tourism destination".

Regeneration company ReBlackpool said the backing was a key endorsement for the resort's masterplan for the future.

'Very pleased'

"We're delighted that the study has recognised Blackpool's compelling case as the preferred location for the sole UK regional casino development," said Sir Peter Hall, chair of ReBlackpool.

"We regard this as a definitive endorsement from three of the region's key bodies that Blackpool needs such a development, and we welcome the NWDA's board announcement that they will support the town as the region's definitive candidate for the development."

The NWDA had looked at eight possible sites within the region but concluded Blackpool had the most to gain.

Alan Cavill, Blackpool Council's head of development, said: "We're very pleased that the region has made this decision to back Blackpool's case.

"This really is excellent news which will add great weight in supporting the council's broader regeneration ambitions for our town."