An expansion of Bucks County’s casino impact program could allow more communities to apply for a share of the slots revenues at Philadelphia Park in Bensalem. But not everyone wants to spread the money around. On Monday, the Bucks County Redevelopment Authority released its gaming impact grants, including a USD 350,000 grant for police and fire services in Bristol.

Plans to create a casino in Lancaster are being discussed by councillors. The developer says about 30 jobs could be created by the conversion of two floors of Riversway House, a vacant office block on Morecambe Road. Our Lady's Catholic college is among 10 objectors to the scheme, with governors claiming the casino would be too close to the school. Residents have also raised concerns about the plans, but planners are recommending that approval is granted.

With casino development one of the biggest topics throughout the Asia-Pacific region, the government and the people of Taiwan continue to blow hot and cold on the subject. It is not a new situation. The Penghu County of Taiwan, composed of a number of islands between the main island and the Chinese mainland, has been one of the primary locales touted as being ripe for casino development.

Lively debates are expected at the fourth European Gambling Briefing (EGB), taking place from 13 - 14 May 2008 in Amsterdam. EGB is already established as an essential part of the gaming events calendar, focusing on legal and regulatory issues for both the online and land-based industries. The conference will address the practical ramifications of these issues for operators and suppliers building an international gambling business.

While in opposition in April last year, the Tories made a pre-election promised that they would hold a public vote on the subject and back what the people decide. However, Royston Smith, deputy leader of the Tory-led city council, recently said a casino could be built in Southampton even if an overwhelming majority of local people did not want one.