London politicians endorse gambling expansion

The politicians in London voted 7–5 in favour of gambling expansion in the city. They emphatically supported the proposal of Gateway Casinos to build a casino complex at Western Fair which will have more slot machines, table games, restaurants and even a hotel.

There were concerns from some citizens that this would further burden the effects of problem gambling. But city politicians have given their thumbs-up. The strategic priorities and policy committee also voted to check out how the increased gambling revenues can be utilised to combat the effects of problem gambling.

Gateway Casinos still is in discussion with the Western Fair and city hall to obtain a better lease deal at the fairgrounds. The company has threatened to pull out the talks and start the facility elsewhere if discussions get delayed continuously. But city politicians stood for public consultation, which included an open house in March and the recent public meeting. Gateway is waiting for the final endorsement from the city to implement with its plans.

Source: lfpress.com