Progress toward the first casino in Bermuda was made last week when the Casino Gaming Commission approved two sites that were also signed off by Senator Michael Fahy, the Minister for Tourism, Transport and Municipalities. The sites are the Hamilton Princess hotel and a St George’s hotel project that never was completed.
“This is the start of the process that will allow Bermuda to realize the public policy goals envisioned in the Casino Gaming Act 2014, namely increased employment and investment for Bermuda and an enhanced tourism product,” said Fahy.
The original legislation required the developer of the sites considered for integrated resorts get the site designated by the commission. With this done, the two developers can apply for the first of three licenses, all of which are expected to be issued.
Criteria for the sites include the suitability for a casino and the existing resort operations. Being designated a casino site does not guarantee that the site or developer will be selected, and there is no limit on the number of designated casino sites.
The sites designated are controlled by HotelCo Bermuda Holdings Limited (St. George site) and Hamilton Properties Limited (Hamilton Princess).
Alan Dunch, the chairman of the commission, said it was a step forward for gaming in Bermuda.
“I want to applaud both of the applicants and the commission staff for working together to advance these two projects to this stage,” he said. “We see this as an important step in developing this tool of economic development for the people of Bermuda.”
