The Stage

Hull to build £65m casino complex

Published Tuesday 1 June 2004 at 11:40 by Ruth Gillespie

Hull City Council has revealed plans to create a £65 million casino and entertainment development with US firm Las Vegas Sands Inc, creating up to 1,600 jobs.

The proposed scheme, which would be built beside the Kingston Communications Stadium - home to Hull FC and Hull United - includes a casino, restaurants and conference and entertainment facilities and is expected to be completed within three years.

Colin Inglis, Hull City Council leader, said: “It is an exciting idea. It would be a fantastic way of raising Hull’s profile, not just as a top city in the UK but as a top city in Europe.”

This comes as part of the government’s plans to relax regulations on gaming and follows recommendations from the parliamentary committee scrutinising the proposed gambling legislation that casinos containing hotel and entertainment facilities should be confined to specific areas where they can bring regeneration.

Las Vegas Sands is also believed to be funding a large-scale casino development in Sheffield United’s Bramall Lane ground, which will include a luxury eight-storey hotel, restaurants, bars and a major conference venue with entertainment facilities.

Under the 1968 Gaming Act, operators were prevented from using their premises for anything other than gambling. However, Whitehall has already relaxed restrictions on entertainment in order to attract international companies willing to invest in new Vegas-style casinos.

In light of this, variety performers have asked Equity to ensure the industry is consulted during the construction of the new resort venues, which are planned nationwide once the gaming laws have been passed.

Equity council member Yvonne Joseph said: “We need to ensure that the best possible conditions are met for our artists - live music not cheap backing tapes, adequate sound systems - that meet health and safety regulations. Billions of pounds are being spent on these complexes, if we hesitate any longer we will miss the opportunity to represent our members.”