Blackpools Call to Arms for Casino Defense

Blackpool residents were called in to rally behind the town's bid to win a super casino license, prompting them with a reminder that they have nine days to shape Blackpool's future.

"This is a call to arms," one leading regeneration boss said.

The Casino Advisory Panel which will make the reccomendation to the government by the end of the year would be visiting blackpool on Friday, September 8. The visit will be open for public discussion and local residents were prompted to speak out in favbor of the area.

Residents were invited to compose a letter of no more than 1,500 words by Thursday, Aug. 10. Should a letter sender be chosen, they will get the chance to speak at the hearing, to let their pro-Blackpool views be heard.

Blackpool North and Fleetwood MP, Joan Humble, said: "It's vital the people of Blackpool stand up and be counted in support of this cause.

"It's essential the whole community gets behind the vision for the future of this town."

Blackpool South MP, Gordon Marsden, said. "I would encourage as many people as possible to submit their views on the project.

"We must emphasise the social regeneration impact the casino would have on Blackpool's rich and unique heritage," he added.

"We need the support of the public more than ever at this absolutely critical stage," Coun Eddie Collett, deputy leader at Blackpool Council, said.

"This is a call to arms. This is an opportunity to reflect the consensus that the people of Blackpool support our bid. We believe we have a very strong case."