Havering backs Thames Gateway casino for Rainham

Havering Council has thrown its full weight behind proposals for a Regional Casino and Entertainment Complex at Rainham, a key focus of the London Riverside regeneration area, and in the heart of the Thames Gateway.

A meeting of the full Council on 7 December unanimously approved a cross-party motion supporting the development as the catalyst for regeneration that could bring enormous investment to the local area.

The motion highlighted the many benefits of the casino-based development, diversifying and strengthening the economy, upgrading the environment and image of the area, and bringing a wide range of community and transport improvements, while minimising the risk of any adverse social effects.

The Council will be making a strong bid to the national Casino Advisory Panel, which will be advising the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport on where a regional casino should be located in the UK.

There will now be widespread consultation on the Rainham casino and entertainment proposals with the community and interested organisations.

Councillor Michael White, the Leader of Havering Council, said:
"There are a lot of casino proposals being talked about in different parts of the country, but I don't know of any which have such strong support as Rainham does, from the local authority, the local community, the London Thames Gateway Development Corporation, and other agencies involved in the regeneration of the area.

"This development would be the catalyst which is so badly needed to realise plans to revitalise the area, which is a national and regional priority for regeneration. We will be working closely with the Development Corporation, our other partners, and the community, to bring this exciting project to fruition."

For more information contact Roger McFarland, Havering's Head of Regeneration and Strategic Partnerships on 01708 432583.