The Isle of Man government is inviting developers to put forward plans to develop a five-star hotel and casino complex on the island.
In granting a second casino licence, the government said the island can diversify its visitor offering and increase tourist numbers. The lack of gaming duty on terrestrial casinos and no limit on the number of slot machines is expected to appeal to potential investors.
"I believe the granting of a second casino licence and development of a hotel complex will be a great asset to the Isle of Man, creating significant economic opportunities and benefit," said Minister for Economic Development Allan Bell. "Not only will the development create jobs in the construction and leisure industry, but it will also significantly add to the Island’s excellent existing services."
However, the plans to develop a second casino have been criticised by the Sefton Group, owner and operator of the island’s existing casino at the Palace Hotel. Last month, the company’s chairman, Sir Miles Walker, suggested that the island was unlikely to be able to support two casinos with such a low catchment population.
