Birmingham Forward members back NEC's super casino bid

In a survey being published today Birmingham's professional and financial services community is backing the NEC's bid for a super casino ahead of that of Birmingham City Football Club. 69% of respondents to the survey, which was conducted by Birmingham Forward amongst its members, said they supported the NEC's bid. The survey was undertaken following separate presentations given by Birmingham City Football Club and the NEC and hosted by Birmingham Forward. "Our members are strong supporters of a super casino coming to Birmingham," explained Simon Murphy, chief executive of Birmingham Forward. "Four out of every five people who responded said we should be actively seeking to secure a Regional Casino Licence. With this in mind they have gone on to give their backing to the bid they believe is most likely to be both successful and the strongest net contributor to the Birmingham economy. "72% of respondents believe the NEC's bid is the easiest to deliver and so more likely to be successful. The NEC's credibility and expertise combined with the support for the bid from both Birmingham and Solihull should give it a strong platform when being reviewed by Government. "The NEC also wins hands down when it comes to attracting visitors, with 75% of respondents supporting it in this context. Our members believe the NEC is already an easily accessible 'destination' and that its attraction will only be enhanced by the casino. "When considering the regeneration return of the respective bids our members are evenly split. 51% believe the Birmingham City Football Club bid is stronger in this context compared to 49% for the NEC. Clearly there are real strengths in both bids, bringing jobs and investment to key areas.. The commitment of MGM-Mirage, which is part of the NEC bid, to recruit from the unemployed and to provide essential skills training for those with no qualifications is seen as very important. As is its commitment to provide transport to bring employees to the Casino site.. "Overall, our members support the concept of a super casino in the Midlands, recognising the potential benefits it could bring in terms of investment and regeneration. On balance, they believe the NEC bid is most likely to succeed and this is why they have given it their support. "It is important to note, however, a minority of members have raised concerns about the promotion of gambling and are worried about the consequences of having a super casino for Birmingham's reputation. "Therefore, as we move forward in support of the NEC's bid, we need to be sensitive to these views and secure the best solution for the majority."

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