The process of awarding a large casino licence in Middlesbrough, in the north-east of England, got under way last week.

Middlesbrough was among eight locations chosen to award a large casino licence under the Gambling Act 2005. The casino is expected to have a gaming area of a maximum 3,500sq.m and up to 150 gaming machines.

Successful applicants will be judged on their ability to deliver the scheme, proposals for a socially-responsible development, commitment to economic regeneration and maximising employment and their financial contribution to the town.

Mayor Ray Mallon told the Gazette recently: "A large casino in Middlesbrough will attract many people from outside the town and the area as a whole.

"The casino will include gambling space but there will also be leisure facilities such as restaurants, bars and entertainment. In this day and age casinos are not just about gambling.

"The casino will enhance the town’s economy by millions of pounds and also attract developers."

Stage one of the application process will close on January 28, 2011.

The other towns and cities chosen as locations for the new large casinos are Newham, Leeds, Hull, Great Yarmouth, Milton Keynes, Solihull and Southampton.