Sky Casinos

Blackpook Remains Confident They Will Win Super Casino Race

Officials in Blackpool remain confident of being awarded the UK's first super casino, despite being ranked third by the panel advising the government.

Judges will visit all eight short listed sites throughout 2006 and a decision will be made at the end of the year.

Blackpool's bid centers on a casino and conference quarter, which officials say will create 20,000 jobs in the region. Councilor Roy Fisher, leader of Blackpool Council, said: "We are confident that we can further justify our case to the Panel at the public examination later this year."

The resort's case is supported by Mark Etches, former managing director of Leisure Parks and a leading consultant to the gaming industry. He said: "Ultimately, I think Blackpool will win it.

"Ultimately for Blackpool it's absolutely dependent on having a regional casino at its heart and I think that is the most distinguishing feature, other than the fact it is the most popular choice."

Mr. Etches said he thought the Dome bid at Greenwhich would be affected because the area's regeneration is not dependent on a Las Vegas-style super-casino.

Only one site will eventually get the go-ahead for a large regional casino - dubbed the "super-casino" - with unlimited slot machine jackpots.

A further 16 license for small and large casinos with jackpot limits of 4,000 UK Pounds will also be granted.