Operator News

Northern Ireland – Northern Ireland to launch public consultation on casinos

By Phil - 28 November 2017

Northern Ireland is once again looking at the potential of introducing casinos with Belfast City Council carrying out a public consultation into a casino costing £300m.

The consultation will ‘determine a corporate position in relation to the development of an entertainment and casino complex and extended licensing hours in Belfast.’

Two leading casino groups are believed to have been discussion with politicians concerning a hotel, restaurant, bar, water park and casino development.

UK operator Rank, owner of the Grosvenor and G Casino brands is known to have shown an interest in the development.

Consultation documents said: “There has been interest shown by international investors in developing an entertainment and casino complex in Belfast. It is the role of the NI Assembly to decide on any changes to the law governing both casinos and licensing hours. These are dealt with on a regional basis and fall under the responsibility of the Department for Communities.”

The consultation will run from December 11 to March 5.