Tsogo Sun has announced major expansion plans for three of its casino-hotels in Gauteng, with the Silverstar, Gold Reef City and Montecasino operations set for an overhaul following approval by the Gauteng Gambling Board (GGB).

In terms of the various applications approved by the GGB, Tsogo Sun has made an amount of R150-million available to be spent on charitable or social infrastructural developments in the Gauteng province. The projects will be selected and administered by the GGB.

In addition, a minimum of R750-million will be invested in the expansion and redevelopment of the Silverstar casino and the refurbishment and expansion of the Gold Reef City casino and Theme Park. These developments are expected to be completed within the next two years and will result in at least 400 new permanent job opportunities, excluding outsourced operations such as tenanted restaurants and support services which will create over 4000 construction jobs during the development period.

In terms of the expansion agreement, the GGB has allowed an overall increase of 1500 gaming positions across the three casinos to be rolled out.

Tsogo Sun’s CEO Marcel von Aulock said that the Group was delighted that the GGB had seen the value offered to the province through these additional developments and was committed to expanding each of their operations to their full potential: “Tsogo has a track record of successful investment at Montecasino which will continue and having bedded down the Gold Reef merger we are looking forward to enhancing the operations at Silverstar and Gold Reef City.”

Bally Chuene, Chairman of the GGB, stated that these developments are job creating, growth and investment activities. In addition to the employment created, these operations generate strong tax revenues for the provincial and national governments.

The Silverstar casino will be redeveloped to create a variety of additional dining options and an outdoor events area, allowing the complex to host live concerts and events such as the popular Boktown. Additional entertainment offerings will include cinemas, a 10-pin bowling alley and laser tag games as well as an expanded and enhanced casino floor and parking.

Gold Reef City will also see the expansion of the casino offering as well as the introduction of cinemas and additional restaurants at the casino. In addition the ever popular Gold Reef City Theme Park will receive additional food and beverage outlets, improved access systems and an improved linkage to the casino complex.

Source: Travel – iafrica