Independent, The (London): Letter: Seaside gambling

Sir: Your report "Casinos may regenerate Felixstowe's faded glory" (20 October) correctly points out that regional casinos could help to regenerate Britain's coastal towns.

Blackpool was the first local authority to say it wanted to encourage major casino development, as part of a range of entertainment. Regional casinos are at the heart of our masterplan to regenerate the resort by attracting visitors all year round, developing other new attractions and revitalising the promenade, illuminations and town centre.

We believe regional casinos are best located away from Britain's major centres of population in places where people have to make a planned decision to visit. That could help protect against any potential for problem gambling and it would give seaside towns like Blackpool access to a completely new industry. While cities like Manchester and Liverpool have found other industries to regenerate their economies, resorts like Blackpool remain tourist destinations at heart.

Blackpool has repeatedly argued for clear national and regional guidance to ensure the Gambling Bill succeeds in its aim of regenerating ailing economies. Amendments to the Bill have addressed this in part, but there still remains a danger that potential operators will find the lure of the major cities more tempting.

ROY FISHER

Leader of the Council, Blackpool