Work on Europe’s largest casino resumes

Construction work has resumed on what will be Europe’s largest casino, the City of Dreams in Cyprus.

Cyprus.- Construction work has resumed the City of Dreams Mediterranean in Limassol, which once complete will become Europe’s largest casino.

ICR Cyprus took the decision to resume construction work after Cyprus’s Council of Ministers lifted Covid-19 lockdown restrictions on the construction sector.

Construction was halted when Cyprus imposed the lockdown on March 23.

Melco, which owns 75 per cent of ICR Cyprus, said it was prioritising the health and safety of its employees by following all guidelines issued by the Ministry of Labour and Ministry of Health on the protection of workers on construction sites.

It said all workers were required to submit an internal health declaration and have temperatures checked at the entrance to the construction site.

Hand sanitisers and alcohol gel would be made available at the site’s gates and office and masks would be distributed to all workers daily, it said.

The company added that offices and shared spaces would be cleaned regularly throughout the day and that the company would educate workers on pandemic prevention measures and place posters in prominent locations.

Will Cornish, Vice President of Construction at Melco Crown Entertainment, said: “The outbreak of the Covid-19 pandemic may have affected our original timeline, but Melco prioritises the safety of our colleagues and project quality.

“We remain committed to the Cyprus project; with our aim to deliver a premium entertainment experience, to offer the highest standards of service whilst ensuring a safe environment for all guests.

“We are aware that our role in the growth of the tourism industry and more broadly in Cyprus’ economy is of vital importance, especially during these challenging times.

“We will work tirelessly to ensure that, following this crisis, the country will emerge as a point of reference for luxury tourism, creating a positive impact for society.”

City of Dreams Mediterranean will be Europe’s largest casino resort. Prior to the delay, the €550million resort was due to open by the end of 2021 with a 7,500-square-metre gaming area hosting more than 100 tables and 1,000 slot machines as well as a 500-room five-star hotel.

Cyprus Casinos currently has a temporary facility in Limassol as well as satellite casinos in Nicosia, Larnaca, Paphos and Ayia Napa, which are due to reopen from July.