“Proposals to limit the number of supercasinos is likely to benefit Britain’s business tourism” predicted Michael Hirst, Chairman of the Business Tourism Partnership, speaking at the 2nd National Conference on Business Tourism in Nottingham on 16th November 2004.

He said that in only allowing eight regional casinos, this would probably mean that each complex would more be more comprehensively developed with associated facilities, such as convention centres and entertainment auditoria, suitable for large scale conferences and conventions.

He explained, “This might be just the planning gain we’re looking for in providing world class meeting facilities, especially in London, where an International Convention Centre would be an ideal part of any new development”.

In overseas conference and incentive destinations, casinos, entertainment venues and convention facilities work very well together in attracting major international business events. “I see this as a real opportunity for Britain to offer similar attractions”, he added.

Already plans have been proposed for Glasgow’s Scottish Exhibition Centre, Birmingham’s National Exhibition Centre, London’s Olympia and Wembley to develop casino facilities alongside existing conference and exhibition venues. Plans for casino developments at several resorts, including Blackpool and Brighton also embrace conference facilities.

Britain’s business tourism is estimated to be worth annually £18 billion in tourism and over £100 billion in trade receipts. VisitBritain estimates that by 2010 overseas business visitors to Britain will represent 45% of all incoming tourism expenditures.

“This is just the boost Britain’s business tourism needs. Hopefully the DCMS which is the sponsoring department for business tourism and is also steering the new gambling laws through Parliament will recognise the advantages to the conference sector”, Michael Hirst added.