Image: Jomast's vision for its new £25m scheme

Middlesbrough Council has announced the formation of a new committee to ensure that the town's proposed new large casino has a positive impact on the local community.

The Social Responsibility Committee has been established to work with the casino operator in developing and implementing a policy to protect "vulnerable" residents.

Last month (June), Jomast Developments announced it had secured Middlesbrough's large casino licence and was planning a major new £25m leisure and entertainment scheme.

The casino will be at the centre of the Plus3 Architecture-designed complex, with plans also including a luxury hotel and a budget hotel; banqueting facilities; and restaurants.

Middlesbrough mayor Ray Mallon said: "The casino will create jobs and attract people into the town centre, and that can only benefit Middlesbrough as a whole.

"But I am fully aware of the concerns that people have over the potential of a new casino to increase problem gambling, and we have taken those concerns into consideration from the outset."

Click here for more information about the formation of the new Social Responsibility Committee in Middlesbrough.