Plans to build a mixed-use development on empty land adjoining the Boardwalk Precinct in Port Elizabeth, South Africa - including a casino - have been abandoned.
Casino developer Emfuleni Resorts made the decision after the Eastern Cape Gambling and Betting Board decided not to extend the Boardwalk’s casino licence, which was a condition of the plans.
The ZAR1.3bn (€80m) development would have been the largest single investment in tourism and hospitality in the city. The Gambling Board’s decision to amend the 15-year term of the casino licence for another 20 years was conditional to give the investors security, as there remains only nine years of the current licence.
The plans were to include a retail shopping mall, events venue and entertainment, and would have created 8,500 new jobs.
Also planned for the location was a 2,000sq.m Magic Company FEC including laser tag and tenpin bowling, plus cinemas.
