By Simon Jones on Tuesday, 30 Jan 2007 Despite Blackpool and Greenwich emerging as the frontrunners in the race to win the UK's first super casino licence, officials surprised many by choosing the city of Manchester.
The 5,000 sq metre casino, which will include 1,250 slot machines, is to be constructed in Beswick, close to the City of Manchester Stadium that was built for the Commonwealth Games, the Guardian reports.
Commenting on the surprise decision, Richard Leese, leader of the city's council, said that the licence is "fantastic news" for the region.
"We have always believed that Manchester offers a robust testbed for the successful implementation of this major leisure and tourism development," he remarked.
Stephen Crow, chairman of the Casino Advisory Panel which made the decision, has also recommended a number of other potential locations for large casinos, including Great Yarmouth, Leeds and Milton Keynes.
In response to the decision, Steve Warner chief executive of Blackpool Council, said that it was both unexpected and "hugely disappointing".
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