The planning committee of the city council in Bournemouth, UK recently voted 6-2 to approve a new casino. Committee members deferred a decision last month due to a “lack of clarity” in the application made by Aspers Casinos and developers Licet Holdings and Legal & General, who submitted a revised plan. Aspers Group Chief Operating Officer Richard Noble, said, “We’re excited to be at the heart of the leisure facilities in this development and not ashamed to be located alongside other venues,” he added.
The casino will be located in the city’s new BH2 development, causing some councillors to express concern that the venue may not be suitable in a family entertainment center. Councillor David Smith, noting the casino was not included in the original BH2 design, said despite being “disappointed” with the “underhand” way Legal & General brought up the casino plans, he “could not argue” with the revised application.
Councillor Lynda Price, the other “no” vote, criticized the requirement that the developers install CCTV worth nearly $20,000 at public entrances to the building. Calling that figure “peanuts,” she said, “This is a $62 million development. I think we should be asking for more.”
The new two-floor casino will be open 24/7 and offer electronic gaming machines, a VIP area and live jazz music. The $20 million BH2 development will be completed by February and will feature a cinema and several branded restaurants.
