Second losing bidder launches Newham casino court battle
A second firm that lost out on the right to build a Las Vegas-style casino in Newham is to challenge the decision in court.
Apollo Genting, which submitted plans for a so-called “large casino” at Silvertown Quays, confirmed today it is to launch a judicial review action in the High Court.
The company — along with a third bidder, City and Eastern — lost out when Newham Council’s licensing committee selected the proposals by Aspers for a casino at the Westfield Stratford City complex last month.
City and Eastern, whose plans for a complex at Gallions Reach were also rejected, submitted its own judicial review application last week.
Both losing bidders claim Town Hall chiefs failed to take account of a legal requirement to maximise regeneration benefits.
City and Eastern say their bid would have created 1,200 new jobs — compared to the 440 on offer at the Westfield site.
They said it would also have brought �250 million of new development, whereas the Stratford site offers none because it is within the new shopping complex.
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Apollo Genting claim their proposals would have created 2,500 jobs.
But a Newham Council spokesman said: “The council’s decision-making process to award the licence was robust and fair. We are aware of the legal challenge and are confident that all aspects of the process will stand up to scrutiny.”
