Regional gaming operator Isle of Capri has commissioned architect Carey Jones to design a £30m fit out for its casino at Coventry City’s new football stadium.
The commission for the project at the new Ricoh Arena is part of the race to open the first regional casino in the UK.
To support the proposed scheme, a group of Coventry MPs, business organisations and community groups have launched Coventry Now, a campaign backing the bid to secure the UK’s first regional casino pilot under the new Gambling Act.
With the Government set to announce the locations of the first pilot casinos in early 2007, Coventry Now will make the clear case for Coventry’s selection as the first regional casino pilot.
Paul Fletcher, Chief Executive of the Ricoh Arena and spokesman for the Coventry Now campaign, said: “Coventry is the natural choice for the UK’s first regional pilot casino.
“Coventry’s bid is backed by a strong local partnership, unique because it includes a local charity focused on the regeneration of the area – the Higgs Charity.”
David Matthews, Director of Carey Jones Architects said: “Coventry is well positioned to become the UK’s first regional casino.
“As well as being backed by key local figure heads the scheme has the benefit of an experienced regional casino operator which is thoroughly engaged in the communities in which it trades.
“With the shell ready for fit out and a fully finished design, other regional casino pilots can’t possibly be as well prepared and certainly couldn’t open sooner.”
References: EGi News 02/11/05
