The £5m Ladbrokes Casino and Sports Bar at the London Paddington Hilton hotel is to open its doors on 18 July.

The result of a joint venture between Ladbrokes, former London Clubs International chair Alan Goodenough and his associate David Seton, the project marks Ladbrokes’s return to the casino market after a break of more than five years.

Christopher Bell, chief executive officer at Ladbrokes, said: “The casino is superbly located – in close proximity to the Heathrow Express and in a part of London that is undergoing significant redevelopment.

“This investment also ensures that Ladbrokes is operationally ready to bid for one or more of the new casino licences under the 2005 Gambling Act.”

The casino features three different areas including the sports bar, a Las Vegas-style slot zone, with machines that pay out £500 and £4000, and the gaming floor which will offer games including blackjack, roulette and punto banco.

The development will also boast an 80-cover restaurant offering Asian, Thai and European cuisine. Details: www.ladbrokes.com