There are three casinos developers vying for the chance to build a new small-scale casino property in Atlantic City, New Jersey.

State Casino Control Commission chair Linda Kassekert revealed that expressions of interest had been received from Hard Rock subsidiary AC Gateway, Pinnacle Entertainment’s ACE Gaming and development group California Avenue Ventures.

Earlier this year, New Jersey Governor Chris Christie signed legislation permitting the issuing of licences for small-scale boutique casino hotels with as few as 200 rooms. Under the law, the properties must be built along the city’s Boardwalk and one of the licences must be for a project that will be scaled up to at least 500 rooms within five years.

The three applicants have until August 19 to submit more detailed applications for the available licences and the Commission hopes to complete its review process in 60 days.

"The creation of the small-scale and staged casino facility licences offers the Atlantic City market the unique opportunity to grow through the introduction of innovative concepts and attractions to add to the traditional gaming environment."