UK-based operator Aspers has been chosen to develop a large casino on the edge of the London Olympic Park.

Newham Council awarded the large casino licence to Aspers after reviewing six initial proposals and three finalist applications. The council’s Licensing Committee said its decision was based on strict criteria, including the financial ability to deliver, a commitment to job creation and regeneration opportunities and the benefit to the Newham community.

"The committee considered carefully the merits of each application and followed a rigorous selection process, which was carried out in strict adherence to the guidelines," said Councillor Ian Corbett, chair of the Licensing Committee. "Each proposal was looked at and assessed against the criteria and this has enabled us to reach a final decision."

The new casino is expected to open before the end of the year and in time for next year’s Olympic Games in East London. The 65,000sq.ft property will be located in the Central Arcade, at the new Westfield Stratford City at the heart of Newham and will be the first of its kind to open in the UK, creating up to 440 new jobs.

"This will be Aspers’ most exciting project to date," said Damian Aspinall, chairman of Aspers. "We are delighted that, after a detailed and comprehensive assessment, Newham’s Licensing Committee has recognised that our bid delivers the best operator in the best location within the best development. We now look forward to turning our dream into reality over the coming months."

Aspers is a joint venture between the Aspinall family and Crown of Australia.