Plans to convert a popular Southend sports centre into a new casino have been dealt a major blow.
The Gaming Board has lodged an objection to the £4.5m bid for Courtlands Country Club in Thorpe Bay.
The industry regulator believes there is not enough demand for a third casino in the borough.
Neil Wells, chairman of the Courtlands 2000 committee, said: "We are delighted that the Gaming Board has now intervened.
"We hope it will add to our strength at the forthcoming hearing before magistrates."
Tower Casino Group's plans include the removal of fitness, health and social facilities at the club.
Managing director Richard Kendle said he was determined to press on with the controversial proposals. He said today: "We still plan to go ahead. It will go to court on April 19."
The licensing hearing is likely to last several days.
Converted for the new archive on 19 November 2001. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.
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