Manchester United Applies To Build Casino Complex

Manchester United Plc is applying to build a new casino complex, including a five-star hotel, restaurants and a health club, near to its Old Trafford stadium, the group said on Tuesday.

The world's richest soccer club, awaiting a formal bid approach from U.S. tycoon Malcolm Glazer, said it is making its bid in partnership with hotel and gaming company Las Vegas Sands Corp but its plans depend on receiving a casino licence.

The club has the support of its local Trafford Council and together with its U.S. partner has made an initial bid for a licence for a regional-scale casino in the Trafford area.

"The project has the potential to create up to 2,000 new jobs," said Rodney Brody, UK representative for Las Vegas Sands.

Under Britain's new Gambling Act of 2005, a government-appointed advisory panel will look at applications under which the first regional casino and any subsequent projects are awarded.

Manchester United's U.S. partner is headquartered in Las Vegas, Nevada, and owns The Venetian Resort Hotel Casino and the Sands Expo and Convention Center, and it is also developing casino hotel resort properties in Macau.