Blackpool holds on to dream of supercasino

Blackpool has dismissed speculation that the Millennium Dome is the frontrunner in the race for the UK's only supercasino after Wembley pulled out last week.

Media reports suggested the Dome was now tipped for the single licence despite the recent controversy surrounding the relationship between Deputy Prime Minister John Prescott and Philip Anschutz, chief executive of the company developing the site.

Alan Cavill, head of corporate policy at Blackpool council, said: "Nobody has an insight into the thinking of the advisory panel that's making the decision. Perhaps there is speculation because Anschutz has already started building a casino, but it could easily be converted for other use if it loses the bid."

Seven bids are now on the table after the Wembley proposal was pulled by Brent council following a vote by two-thirds of residents against the plan. A decision is expected at the end of this year.