Labour refuse to listen to the public over super-casino

12.00.00am UTC (GMT +0000) Wed 26th Jul 2006

Labour refusing to listen over 'super-casino' plans

The Labour controlling group on Sheffield City Council have turned down the Lib Dems bid for a citywide referendum on the prospect of a super-casino in the city. Labour turned the request down noting that the super-casino "was not a controversial issue".

Sheffield has been selected as one of the eight locations shortlisted for the UK's first Las Vegas style 'super-casino'. Whilst the Liberal Democrat group have given a cautious welcome to the news, they have also been listening to the local debate since the announcement.

There are question marks over the negative social impact a super casino could have. There have also been other concerns raised such as the possible location of a casino.

However, there is also a significant number of local people in favour of a 'super-casino' coming to Sheffield. Many believe that a casino would boost the local economy and attract thousands of new visitors to the city.

Liberal Democrats believe that a 'super-casino' has the potential to have a major impact on the city, and therefore it should be subjected to a citywide referendum in order to let everyone have their say. However, Labour turned the request down noting that the super-casino "was not a controversial issue".

Councillor Paul Scriven, Leader of the Sheffield Liberal Democrat Group, said: -

"A referendum would have allowed the people of Sheffield to have their say on an important issue, but Labour are refusing to listen to local people and showing their usual 'we know best' attitude"

"It's clear that the issue of the super-casino presents moral, economic and social questions to the people of Sheffield. There is no doubt that it would have a major effect on the city. Despite this Labour are determined to go ahead with their decision with no real input from the public on such a significant decision"

"They claim to be a listening a council, but this snub to the people of Sheffield shows that current council leaders will only listen when it suits them. On one of the most controversial decisions to face this city in 25 years, it is wrong to shut out the public voice"