NEC Backers Dismayed Over Casino

Supporters of the National Exhibition Centre's bid for the UK's first "super casino" have reacted to news at its failure to make the shortlist.

Birmingham and Solihull councils jointly supported the NEC's bid.

Ted Richards, leader of Solihull Council, said: "I cannot believe this decision, our proposal was such a strong one."

The NEC said it is "extremely surprised and disappointed" not to have won through to the eight-strong shortlist.

Mr Richards said of the NEC location: "Excellent location, superb road, rail and air links and a potential site that surely cannot be matched anywhere. This defies belief."

Solihull Council will continue with an application to licence the NEC as a large casino.

It is joined by bids from Dudley and Wolverhampton on a shortlist of sites for eight designated large and eight small casinos.

Deborah Smith NEC, marketing and communications director, said: "Our aim now is to convince the Casino Advisory Panel of the compelling merits of our location. Whilst this would not have the same level of impact in terms of jobs and regeneration as a regional casino we still believe it would be an important next step to further strengthen the vitally important business tourism sector in the West Midlands and revitalise our economy."

Jerry Blackett, policy director of Birmingham Chamber of Commerce said: "We wish the cities still in the race good luck but feel that none of them matched the advantages offered by the NEC."

Locations for all 17 casinos are likely to be recommended in December by the Casino Advisory Panel to the government.