Approval for Bath’s First Casino

Approval has been granted to developers for the construction of the first major casino in the Bath, UK area. Initial proposals were rejected a few months ago, but the developers went back and worked on their project and got the seal of approval they needed to get started. Original design problems were cited by the Bath and North East Somerset Council, with most complaints suggesting that the plans did not fit with the surrounding community. The designs have been “softened” and have been given the green light.

Materials that will be used in the casino have been altered from blue pennant stone to Bath stone, while significant improvements to the roof and grills designs were made. Lib Dem councilor Manda Rigby, a politician from the area, was happy with the compromises and changes made by developers. She said that this demonstrates they are willing to adhere to the values of the Bath area, instead of “taking over” the city with their casino plans. Another councilor, Brian Webber, had this to say: “I am content with what is in front of us and grateful to the applicants for their willingness to make changes.”

There are many local residents who are still vehemently opposed to the idea of this casino. They are under the impression that the changes being made are superficial at best. “Even if you put lipstick on a pig, it still remains a pig,” said the Bath Heritage Watchdog association.

The casino is set to cost close to 14 million pounds, while it will include a 148 room hotel, two lavish restaurants, and other amenities. There is concern from locals about the number of buildings that will be torn down to make way for this site, along with the re-appropriation of current public and private parking lots. The absence of those parking spaces may significantly impact the traffic that comes in and out of the nearby Mineral Water Hospital.

Click here for more information about the Sawclose Casino in Bath.