Westcountry

A seaside resort in the Westcountry has been told it will be able to build a casino that can house 80 gaming machines with jackpots of £4,000.

The Government confirmed on Tuesday afternoon that Torbay had been given the green light to develop a small casino.

According to Torbay Council, the development will bring £7m to the local economy and create around 200 jobs.

Cabinet member Councillor Derek Mills said: "This really is the icing on the cake of what has already been a fantastic start to the year for Torbay's future economic prosperity.

"Over the last few months we have launched the Mayoral Vision, setting out a regeneration blueprint for Torbay over the next 20 years; started work on White Rock Business Park, Paignton and more recently announced an exciting HiFlyer balloon for Torquay's seafront and the start of works on Brixham fish market.

Cabinet member Councillor Derek Mills: "We have always seen our casino bid as fitting in closely with a wide range of regeneration initiatives to make Torbay a more exciting place to live and I am delighted."

"We have always seen our casino bid as fitting in closely with a wide range of regeneration initiatives to make Torbay a more exciting place to live and I am delighted."

Deputy Mayor Councillor Kevin Carroll added: "Having been in limbo since March 2007 this announcement is welcomed and gives the opportunity for this development to move forward.

"It really puts Torbay on the map with the potential to attract significant investment and jobs into the area offering a range of entertainment and dining as well as carefully managed gambling opportunities.

"We do, however, fully recognise that some people will have mixed feelings regarding a casino development in Torbay but we have been working closely with the police and our partners to address any concerns that came up during the consultation phase.

"The council takes its responsibility in licensing a casino very seriously, the protection of and support for the most vulnerable people will be critical and will form a significant part of appraising possible operators during the tendering stage."

Torbay Council said it will now consult with local residents to determine what they want to see within the development and identify any concerns that they might have.

Bath and North East Somerset Council has also been told it will be able to build a small casino.

A small casino may have a total gambling area of between 500 and 1,500 square metres, and will be permitted to offer a maximum of 80 gaming machines with jackpots of £4,000.