Clergyman opposed to Solihull casino plans
Posted by Gavin Smith on 18 May 2009 at 08:05
Church leaders have criticised a plan for a new casino in part of Birmingham, saying it could lead to an increase in problem gambling.
The Solihull News says Father Patrick Gerard, a curate at St Alphege Parish Church, is concerned about the idea of a facility in the area.
He is to oppose the plan at a Christian Centre meeting organised for next week by the local council to discuss the issue.
Solihull is one of more than a dozen local authority areas given UK government permission for a large casino to be built, including 150 slot machines per site and a maximum payout jackpot of £4,000.
The local council is now consulting on how best to draw up a gambling policy to cover the development before awarding a licence for any new venue.
Proposals include a plan by the NEC Group for a £90 million hotel and leisure complex, including a casino, and developed in partnership with gaming firm Genting Stanley at a Bickenhill site belonging to NEC.
Father Patrick and members of the Solihull Faith Forum have voiced concerns on the plans.
Quoted by the Solihull News, he said: "The main issue is the potential to increase addiction to gambling,"
"I am concerned that the casino will exploit vulnerable people. Gambling can wreck fami life. Setting a casino here would be a backward step."
