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British Casino Sites Could Leap

UNITED KINGDOM – As reported by the UK Guardian: "The steadily rising number of casinos in Britain could leap by more than 50% to 211 sites, even before next-generation gaming licences have been granted under the Gambling Act, the Guardian has learned.

"Thirty-nine applications for new casino licences have been filed so far this financial year with the Gambling Commission under the old regulatory regime - already close to double the number in 2004-05. A further 12 applications have progressed to full hearings at the commission while 21 additional sites have licences but are not operational; some of these are thought to be dormant and others under construction.

"Stanley Leisure, which is Britain's largest casino group with 41 sites, said this week it had five applications approved by the commission, two awaiting approval and one dormant licence.

"Recent applicants are also believed to include new operators such as Thistle Hotels, which is owned by Malaysian billionaire Quek Leng Chan. The hotel group is thought to have applied to develop casinos in 16 properties, including London hotels Thistle Victoria, Thistle Hyde Park and Thistle Marble Arch. Nightclub operator Luminar has expressed an interest in introducing casinos into some of its larger venues while Gala, one of Britain's largest casino operators, has talked of converting some bingo halls into casinos.

"Culture secretary Tessa Jowell expressed her concern at the spate of applications and imposed a cut-off date of April next year for submissions under the old legislation…"

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