Leeds City Council (LCC) has announced that organisations are now able apply for one of eight licences that have been made available in the UK to operate a "large" casino.

The council is one of a handful of local authorities across the country with powers to award such a license, which is for a property with a minimum area of 1,000sq m (10,764sq ft).

LCC's full council gave final approval for a revised statement of licensing policy last week, which outlines the principles to be applied when deciding to award the casino licence.

Applicants will be required to provide funding for a council-run Social Inclusion Fund and explain their bid in detail, including how they will reduce any negative impact of the venue.

LCC head of licensing and registration John Mulcahy said: "The licence also has the potential to generate more jobs and investment into the area."

Details: www.leeds.gov.uk