COUNCIL chiefs have hailed a decision to allow Leeds to open a new large casino - but are promising to take steps to lessen its social impact'.

Leeds was one of eight cities granted licences for large casinos while Manchester has been named as the location for the UK's first super casino'.

Leader of Leeds City Council, Councillor Andrew Carter, said: "Despite reservations we felt it was important we took the opportunity to compete with other major cities for a slice of the huge regeneration potential a new casino could bring to Leeds.

"There is no doubt the casino complex will generate jobs, however we do not underestimate the possible social impact and we must focus on making sure vulnerable people are protected from any downsides."

Aireborough and Horsforth MP Paul Truswell is also keen precautions are taken to avoid a growth in gambling related problems.

He said: "I have watched this issue with interest, and was one of those who expressed concern, as did senior city councillors at the time, regarding the number of large casinos being proposed nationally.

"The Government heeded this and reduced the number it was prepared to allow, and gave councils the power to refuse them. Then we had feverish lobbying by the council in favour of one.

"While I still have misgivings about such ventures, I hope the council's commitment to address any possible problems will be followed through properly and not lost in the commercial considerations driving the project."