Council moves forward towards granting large casino licence
Council chiefs will be kick-starting the processes to move forward with the awarding of a large casino licence in Leeds next week.
The council was granted the authority to award a large casino licence after a successful bid to the Government in 2006, and is now in the position to start the licensing process with a view to granting a licence in Leeds in under two years.
A report submitted to Leeds City Council’s executive board next week (Wednesday 10 March) will outline the processes and update members on the need to move forward on the matter.
A large casino has the potential to bring a substantial number of benefits to Leeds, including economic, financial and social benefits, and to assist in the economic regeneration of the city.
The council will follow through the legally complex licensing process, with the view to being in a position to award the licence towards the end of 2011.
Councillor Andrew Carter, Leader of council said:
“Leeds is the only core city to have been awarded this licence, and it will become a great asset to the city once in place. These casino licences were meant to deliver the greatest benefit to an area in terms of jobs and economic regeneration, and we remain confident that a large casino can still play a big part in the city's regeneration plans.
“However, as a responsible authority we will always aim to protect those who could be affected in a negative way by gambling”
Notes to editors
In addition to Leeds, the other seven authorities to be awarded a Large Casino Licence are Newham, Great Yarmouth, Hull, Middlesbrough, Milton Keynes, Solihull and Southampton.
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For media enquiries, please contact;
Cat Milburn, Leeds City Council press office (0113) 247 4450
Email:
Catherine.milburn@leeds.gov.uk