A safe bet

Two possible sites for a large casino: Hull's rundown Albion Street area (above) and the fruit market, near Hull Marina (below)

Hull is one of eight councils in the country to get the green light for a large casino

Las Vegas it ain't, but in the future, Hull's not-so-neon skyline may flash in one designated area after the council put in a bid to the Government for a licence that would allow the city to build a large casino.
If the Government approves the recommendations of the Casino Advisory Panel (CAP) that Hull should be granted a licence, it's possible that building in one of the two preferred city centre locations could start by late next year.
The Fruit Market, near Hull Marina, and Albion Street are the two sites that were named in Hull City Council's bid.
One of these locations will be selected once the licence has been agreed by the House of Commons and the House of Lords, because the proposal has outlined that the casino's location must be in the city centre. This is in line with local planning policy and the city's regeneration strategy.
It's hoped that the large casino development will generate new business, up to 250 jobs, increase the choice in entertainment and leisure, and create more tourism to the city.
In its report, CAP stated that Hull's proposal "appears a sound one in almost every respect."
A survey found that 70 per cent of residents and 65 per cent of businesses were in favour of the casino development.
For those who are keen to see a burgeoning new business, even before the casino is up and running, its construction will bring more jobs and prosperity to the city.
There has also been discussion about related businesses emerging as a result of the casino, such as a luxury hotel.
That said, Hull City Council does acknowledge that there are some members of the community who are opposed to gambling, such as faith groups.
When the operator to run the casino is selected, it will be expected to apply strict rules to make sure it limits the challenges of gambling problems. This includes stringent age curfews and policies to deal with problem gamblers.
Humberside Police has been consulted on public order issues.
Hull City Council has already looked at best practices in managing and regulating casinos in America, Australia and South Africa.
"A casino can enforce a more effective way of regulating gambling, and at the same time provide fantastic leisure facilities, creating jobs, attracting investment and developing the city centre," says Cllr Andy Sloan, the cabinet member with responsibility for regeneration and the economy.
"A casino complex would bring in extra revenue by encouraging some of the one million tourists who pass through the port each year to stay for longer.
"It's about providing facilities that we ought to have in a city of this size."
When the final approval is granted, Hull City Council can get to work on seeking planning permission for the casino's final location. And in conjunction with Hull Citybuild, the urban regeneration company, the council will start the selection process to find the best operator to run the casino.