Madrid chosen as location for 'EuroVegas'

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/worldnews/europe/spain/9534174/Madrid-chosen-as-location-for-EuroVegas.html

The Spanish capital was revealed as the casino giant's preferred location over its arch-rival city, Barcelona, after a lengthily bidding battle for the project.

"The regional government of Madrid has been a strong advocate for this potential development, and we are appreciative of the energy they have brought to this process," said Sheldon Adelson, chairman and CEO.

"Barcelona is an outstanding tourism destination, and choosing Madrid over Barcelona was not an easy selection."

The plans for a Las-Vegas-style casino strip on the outskirts of the Spanish capital has been welcomed by city officials.

Ana Isabel Marino, Madrid's counsellor for planning and environment, said that the regional government received the news "with contained satisfaction, given that this is the first step".

As Europe's biggest gambling centre, but still half the size of the famous Las Vegas strip, Mr Adelson's four-mile stretch is set to include six casinos, 12 hotels featuring 36,000 rooms, a convention centre, three golf courses, bars, restaurants and shopping centres.