MGM Mirage's massive CityCenter project in Las Vegas has been recommended for licensing by the Nevada Gaming Control Board.

In a special meeting last Friday, the three board members questioned Jim Murren, chairman and CEO of MGM Mirage, and his team of executives, who discussed the $8.5bn development’s history, role and future.

The board’s recommendation will now go to the five-member Nevada Gaming Commission, which will consider final approval in a meeting on Thursday afternoon.

Board chairman Dennis Neilander said that the MGM Mirage officials convinced him that CityCenter would grow the visitor market.