Red Devils set to gamble

MANCHESTER United have unveiled plans to build a super casino and an entertainment complex close to their Old Trafford stadium - despite government ruling to limit the number of casinos in the UK.

The proposed plan include a luxury five-star hotel, restaurants, health club, sports bar and a casino near the Lowry Outlet in Salford Quays and is set to create upto two-thousand jobs.

The move involves Manchester United working in collaboration with Las Vegas Sands Corporation, a renowned entertainment and gaming company, and Trafford Council.

“The Club is delighted to be part of this exciting project. If selected by an Independent Advisory Panel, it will provide first class entertainment and accommodation on one of the most famous sporting sites in the world,” said Andy Anson, Manchester United’s Commercial Director while welcoming the proposal.

Should the planned proposal is accepted, the move, with the Lowry Centre and Imperial War Museum already in existence, will create the largest cultural village outside London. A new Metrolink station, improved bus routes and additional parking spaces are just a few extras in the pipeline.

The government’s initial acceptance to ‘super’ casinos, seen as an attempt to increase tourism and jobs, came under fire from critics who said it will result in a sharp rise in gambling addiction. This led to a major reshuffle bringing down the number of such planned casinos firstly to eight and then to one, albeit on a trial-run, in a pre-election compromise with the Conservatives.

Manchester United have cited a substantial revival of the Salford Quays area as well as a regeneration of a wider area around the stadium as a reason for their bid. This would also raise the potential for more recreation and entertainment-based business, a move similar to what their local rivals Manchester City alluded to while proposing their own super-casino next to City of Manchester Stadium.

Addressing the issue, Mr. Anson emphasised that due care and planning will be undertaken before construction begins.

“Any plans will of course consider the social issues associated with gambling and we will take expert advice on putting an agreed plan in place to deal with those matters comprehensively,” confirmed Andy Anson.

Trafford Council’s Executive has agreed to support the joint proposal and has made an initial bid for a license. Council leader Susan Fildes assured residents, local businesses and every other party and organisations of their say in the matter as she welcomed the move while envisaging the regeneration potential for The Quays area such a major new attraction could bring.

“I want to reaffirm the Council’s determination while working with the club on this adventurous proposal that the views, comments and opinions of everyone directly and indirectly involved will be considered,” added Susan Fildes.

Las Vegas Sands Corporation recently showed interest in a similar move with Everton FC. However, that move is subject to government ruling regarding gambling laws. The gaming company, however, is quite confident, and pleased, to be working with Manchester United.

“Manchester United is one of the biggest clubs in the world and a truly global name. It’s great to be working with them and Trafford Council for this proposal which will develop new links between Old Trafford and the Quays,” said Rodney Brody, UK representative for Las Vegas Sands.

“The project has the potential to create up to 2,000 new jobs and an outstanding new entertainment and leisure complex for tourists and local community who will benefit from a range of new facilities,” Mr. Brody confirmed.

An independent advisory panel has been appointed by the government to choose who is granted the license for a super-casino with Manchester United in competition with Manchester City and Blackpool.

© Faras Ghani 2005