Barcelona might get a casino even though Las Vegas Sands has chosen to focus on its arch-rival city of Madrid.
A $1bn casino is being planned in Barcelona and Melco International, one of Melco Crown’s controlling shareholders, has been asked to run it, Macau Business Daily reported.
Las Vegas Sands previously chose Madrid over Barcelona for its proposed multi-billion dollar Euro Vegas. At the time, Barcelona officials said they would still pursue a casino resort.
London-based investment group Veremonte has since taken up the reins for a Barcelona project that would eventually include six casinos, 12,000 hotel rooms and shops.
The first phase of Barcelona Dream would encompass 3.2 million square feet with a casino, 1,100 hotel beds and a theatre. It would open in 2016.
Melco International said it is working out the details of a possible management contract.
Casino development in Spain is not certain. LVS, for example is requiring changes in Spanish taxes and some regulations before it commits to building there. It also wants an exemption from the country’s smoking ban.
