THE Salvation Army has welcomed Kirklees Council's decision to pull out of a bid to have a super- casino in the area.
The battle for the giant regional casino will be fought out between 27 local authorities, including Leeds, Wakefield and Sheffield.
Kirklees is not among the applicants, despite early interest.
Maj Ernie Huby, leader of the Salvation Army in Huddersfield, said: "We are pleased that this decision has been made and believe it is the right move to prevent a rise in crime, debt and associated social problems caused by problem gambling."
Only one area will be allowed to have Britain's first Las Vegas-style casino with 1,2500 unlimited jackpot slot machines. The Casino Advisory Panel is judging the applications.
