Gambling Kingz – The UK based Rank Group, one of the country’s largest gambling entities, has confirmed that it is examining the Northern Ireland market for the possible construction of a casino.
Rank said that it has been involved in talks with political groups and lawmakers over Northern Ireland’s first casino, planned to be built in Belfast.
Rank believes that up to 200 new jobs could be created in the new multimillion pound complex.
A model of the complex, which will also feature hotels and restaurants, will be presented sometime this month.
Rank, which manages 55 casinos across Britain, has confirmed that its strategy director, Dan Waugh, has met Alliance, SDLP and Sinn Fei councilors in Belfast and will also hold talks with DUP and Ulster Unionist representatives in January.
Current Northern Ireland laws do not allow for the creation of a casino, however Rank hopes that changes could be made to accommodate the new complex, considering the employment and revenue making possibilities.
At present, only amusement arcades are allowed to be licensed by the city council.
“We want to determine whether or not there is an appetite for a change in the Northern Ireland legislation which would eventually allow for a strictly regulated and monitored gaming operation to anchor a broader entertainment centre with cinema, restaurants, bars and possibly a hotel, the likes of which are prevalent in most major cities in Europe,” said Dan Waugh.
The casino plans are expected to be met with strong opposition by religious and social groups.
