A total of 27 local authorities around the UK have submitted bids for the nation’s first regional, or ‘super’, casino.

Bids have come in from cities and towns including London, Leeds, Southend-on-Sea, Manchester, Newcastle, Coventry, Cardiff and Blackpool – which many perceive to be the favourite in the bidding race.

Leader of Blackpool Council, Roy Fisher, said: “We are aware there is a lot of competition but we have put forward a strong case which will provide a kick start for long-term regeneration, and transform Blackpool into a world-class destination resort.”

Many more have applied for licences to host one of the 16 other ‘small’ and ‘large’ casinos, which will be considerably smaller than the regional casino and be able to hold Category B gaming machines with a jackpot of £4,000.

The Las Vegas-style supercasino will be allowed to open around the clock, have a gaming area of up to 5,000sq m (53,800sq ft), and house up to 1,250 of the controversial unlimited jackpot Category A machines.

Several international casino operators such as Las Vegas Sands, Isle of Capris and MGM Mirage, Caesars International and Kerzner International have struck deals with local councils to develop the casinos.

London alone has attracted rival bids involving schemes at the former Millennium Dome (now referred to as The O2), and as part of the Wembley regeneration programme.

Mark Murphy, regeneration services manager at Southend-on-Sea borough council, said of their plans: “Combined with a conference centre and four-star hotel facilities, the development will revitalise the central seafront area and reinforce Southend’s position as a major visitor destination.

Steven Purcell, leader of Glasgow City Council added: “A regional casino is much more than just a new leisure investment opportunity for Glasgow, it is a regeneration project which, I believe, will benefit, not only this city but all of Scotland.”

The decision now lies with the Casino Advisory Panel, which will shortlist locations before making a recommendation to the Culture Secretary in December this year. Details: www.culture.gov.uk/cap

Image: Proposed casino for Cardiff International Sports Village