Huddersfield’s new casino shuts just weeks after opening

Nov 24 2008 by Emma Davison, Huddersfield Daily Examiner

Casino Red, sign,

Yesterday neighbouring businesses expressed surprise at the news that the casino had closed so soon after its opening just weeks ago.

The multi-million-pound venue was opened in late September after an extensive refurbishment programme to restore the Grade II listed building, formerly the Princess Cinema, to its former glory.

It was bought by Casino Red, a national casino entertainment company formed two years ago.

The casino was spread over three floors. It boasts a restaurant, three bars and a stage for live entertainment. It has 20 gaming tables, including blackjack, roulette and poker and the latest slot machines.

The casino created 100 new jobs for croupiers, bar and restaurant staff and marketing personnel and was hailed as a massive coup, promising to regenerate the area and attract more people into the town.

But now there is no sign of life in the building and staff fear the outlook for its future is bleak.

They were told of the casino’s financial difficulty during a meeting called by management.

Many had turned up for work that day but were told to go home and wait for a letter from the company and a future meeting. Staff were told that they would be paid up to November 23, although some are yet to be paid.