Citywide referendum call on 'super-casino' plan

12.00.00am UTC (GMT +0000) Mon 30th Oct 2006

Sheffield is on the shortlist for the first super-casino in the UK

Sheffield's Liberal Democrats have renewed their calls for a citywide referendum on the plans for a 'super-casino' in the city. The move comes after yesterdays 'casino stakeholder' public meeting in which a report into the potential positive and negative impacts on Sheffield was presented.

The Bishop of Sheffield carried out the independent report. It highlighted many important social, health, environmental and economic issues. The report reinforced the view that a super-casino would have a major effect on Sheffield and is one of the most controversial issues to face the city in many years.

At the same meeting the Labour Leader of Sheffield Council, Cllr Jan Wilson, admitted that she was unsure of the impact a super-casino would have. Cllr Wilson also noted that a super-casino in Sheffield would be 'a risk'.

Liberal Democrats believe that public consultation on the issue has been poor so far. They are unhappy that there has not been a choice presented to the Sheffield public. Lib Dems 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.

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

"The excellent report by Bishop Jack confirms our belief that a super-casino could have a major impact on Sheffield. Its clear that this is one of the most controversial issues facing our city therefore we believe that everyone should be able to have their say in a citywide referendum"

"The issue presents moral, economic and social questions to the people of Sheffield. Therefore I am disappointed that there has been no significant consultation and no real choice presented to the people of Sheffield"

"The impression many people are getting is that the deal has already been done behind closed doors and there is no opportunity to influence the decision. I believe on an issue like this there is a genuine case for a referendum"