For the time being, the Western Fair District casino features only slot machines, with a total of 738 terminals available to local players. As Casino Reports previously reported, the City of London is planning to add 462 slot machines to its existing slot machines, increasing the number to up to 1,500. In addition, officials in the city will be willing to add 50 live table games, including blackjack, roulette and poker.
According to Councillor Jesse Helmer, this intention has raised concerns among some local residents regarding the possibility of an increase in problem gambling in the area. As Member for Helmer explained, gambling addiction can sometimes lead to players losing their entire lives. Member for Helmer went on to share the need for both London City officials and residents to be very careful and thoughtful when it comes to expanding gambling. 슬롯머신
According to Nigel Turner, one of the gambling experts working with the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, problem gambling is likely to increase in the region as more slots and table games are added to London casinos. Mr Turner said problem gambling is likely to increase whenever the availability of gambling options increases. However, according to him, an increase in gambling options in the region could have a lighter effect, given that the city already has more than 700 slot machines installed.
Mr Turner also reminded us that the majority of people suffering from gambling addiction usually choose slot machines to play on. He added that problem gamblers account for about 20% of all slot machine sales.
As for concerns related to slot machines and table games, as explained by Nigel Turner, most problem gamblers deal with gambling addiction related to slot machines rather than table games. Nevertheless, table games now have far fewer numbers than local slot machines.
Locals facing casino expansion with mixed emotions
As previously reported by Casino Report, the West Expo site has already faced some difficulties with Gateway’s casino expansion project, and local residents are working on the project with mixed feelings. Currently, the gateway operates the slot in the West Expo district.
Last year, Ontario Lottery Games Company (OLG) and Gateway Casino & Entertainment signed a 20-year Casino Operations and Services Agreement (COSA). Under the agreement, Gateway acquired the day-to-day operations and assets of the North and Southwest game bundles.
As mentioned above, Gateway’s casino expansion plan has caused mixed feelings among local residents. For the time being, some of the profits from the Western Fair game will be returned to the City of London. According to an announcement posted on the city’s website, the funds are used to fund public infrastructure and capital projects. Apart from concerns related to the potential increase in problem gambling, there have been concerns that West Fair District will struggle to protect its traditions and heritage. That’s why the City of London expects to hear from the public about the proposed casino and gambling expansion, with its first hearing held last night. A civic participation meeting will be held at City Hall on April 23.