Unique characteristics
We would ask the Panel to take into account the combination of severe deprivation and remoteness from learning and job opportunities, which compounds the difficulties facing deprived residents, and maximises the need for regene ration and concentrates its effect. We do not believe that this combination is faced by any of the other localities seeking a licence.
The Coastal Action Zone is unique, in both its socio-economic difficulties and the opportunity it presents to contain the favourable effects of a casino within a small area. The casino will represent a fresh start for the East Midlands’ only coastal area, and has strong support from local peoples, the business community and local developers.
The unique characteristics the Lincolnshire Coast casino proposal include:
- There is no current or proposed casino attraction within a two-hour drive time of Skegness – thus it represents a wholly untouched area in which to test a new casino development.
- There will not be any job displacement or threat to existing operators. This will maximise the economic regeneration and multiplier impact. The development is likely to promote a new local supply industry.
- The development is as much concerned with extending the tourism season as attracting new visitors. It will lengthen the season via an all weather facility that is likely to stimulate 52 week opening of other attractions eg, Butlins, Natureland Seal Sanctuary.
- As outlined there is no other alternative at present to casino led regeneration. In contrast to other areas with good road linkages and adjacent to affluent urban areas there is no prospect of commercial, office, retail or property led regeneration in the Coastal Action Zone.
- The scale of a small casino whilst minimal in urban areas, will be significant in Skegness and Mablethorpe and will rejuvenate the tourism industry. It will promote high design standards, enhanced employment opportunities and has the potential of iconic transformation of a neglected coast.
- The wide consultation has confirmed that there is unanimous public, business and tourism community support. All sections of the community are supportive with no established local groups or individuals objecting to the proposals. All political groups of the council are supportive.
- The commitment of the coastal community to the concept is evidenced by the interest of three local developers. Each has developed a scheme within the context of the council’s financial and business model – whilst recognising the competitive nature of the selection process and that the council will be seeking national and international interest in the concept. The developers have united to invest in a casino website to promote the bid and highlight the potential of Skegness.
The casino itself will be a unique proposition, integrating with a range of family friendly activities entertaining adults and families. It will be an essential condition that the casino precludes underage players, however, in response to the Coastal Action Zone visitor profile a family visitor package will be preferred.
In conclusion we believe that not only does the Coastal Action Zone form an excellent test location for a casino but also that the casino will be a bottom up, home grown facility in touch with local communities and served by local business. Whilst whoever is chosen to develop the casino will need to be, or partner with, an established operator, the development will undoubtedly support the rejuvenation of the local area. We therefore recommend these proposals to you.
