Structural integrity concerns have caused Genting Casinos UK to temporarily shut down its casino in Westclif-on-Sea. As it turns out, reinforced autoclaved aerated concrete (RAAC) had been used in the property’s construction, compromising the venue.

RAAC was most commonly used in the mid-20th century as a cheaper and lighter version of conventional reinforced concrete. However, structural issues began to surface in the 90s, with concerns growing lauder in the 21st century because of reports of an earlier roofing collapse at a British primary school.

The reliability of the material and its suitability for structures continues to come into question. However, Genting doesn’t want to take any risks and, fearing potential structural integrity problems, decided not to expose its customers to unnecessary danger.

As a result, the casino company shut down its Westcliff-on-Sea property.

A message on the casino’s official website points out that the RAAC was discovered during a routine inspection. Experts learned that RAAC had been used in the construction of the roof, which may pose significant dangers to casino goers.

Genting did not provide any estimate for when the casino would reopen but promised to keep fans updated. In the meantime, it encouraged gamblers to visit other gambling venues to play.

In the meantime, properties throughout the UK continue to replace RAAC components in existing buildings.

Another Genting-Owned Casino Shut Its Doors Recently

The Westclif-on-Sea casino was not the only property Genting was forced to shut down. In October, the gambling operator also had to close the legendary Crockfords Casino.

For reference, the Crockfords Casino used to be the oldest gambling property in the UK that was still in function. Having operated for as many as 195 years, the property was a famous spot for gambling for almost two centuries.

However, the decline in foreign visitation and the lack of high rollers affected its sustainability. As a result, Genting was forced to announce the permanent shutdown of the casino. Genting Casinos UK’s president, Paul Willcock, said that, regrettably, a combination of factors has put high-end London casinos at a competitive disadvantage.

In spite of Willcock’s statement, some fans believe that the decline of high-end casinos is actually caused by some of the local regulations, which force visitors to prove the source of their funds.

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A strike by 3,700 casino workers in Detroit has led to the closure of poker rooms at two high-profile casino properties, MotorCity Casino and MGM Grand Detroit. The strike comprises employees from five different unions and has inadvertently bolstered Canadian gambling tourism, as the nearest fully operational venue is just a short border crossing away.

Protests Are Causing Significant Disruptions

Poker rooms at MotorCity Casino and MGM Grand Detroit have been temporarily closed following the strike. An update on MotorCity Casino’s website informed visitors of the poker room’s closure. Similarly, a sign at MGM Grand Detroit notified guests that the poker room was temporarily unavailable. However, Hollywood Casino in Greektown confirmed that the strike had not affected their offerings.

The protests, affecting crucial positions like dealers, food and beverage staff, and engineers, stem from demands for improved healthcare, higher wages, and a return to pre-pandemic staffing levels. Negotiations between the Detroit Casino Council and the casino operators have been ongoing since September, but the two parties have unfortunately made little progress.

Detroit casino workers need a job that respects our health and our future. We now have to stand up and reset the relationship between us and the companies.

Detroit Casino Council strike flier 

The strike launched when the three-year extension to the original five-year contract, agreed upon during the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic, expired on Tuesday. Workers argue that revenue has now returned to pre-pandemic levels, especially with the inclusion of iGaming throughout Michigan. Poker enthusiasts and staff will face an uncertain period until the affected parties reach an agreement.

Caesars Windsor Attracts Americans with Comprehensive Casino Offering

While the three casinos affected by the strike will remain open, the protests have caused noticeable disruptions. Gordon Orr, CEO of Tourism Windsor-Essex Pelee Island (TWEPI), has offered Detroit bettors an alternative, inviting them to take a short trip across the border to Caesars Windsor, a world-class gaming option free of labor disputes.

Orr emphasized that the Canadian offering provided a quality gaming experience without crossing picket lines, making it a suitable alternative for US casino-goers who wish to avoid the Detroit labor strike. Caesars Windsor manager of PR and communications Susanne Tompkins was also excited to welcome foreign visitors, highlighting the venue’s world-class amenities.

Caesars Windsor is our number one tourist attraction. We’ve got it all… world-class gaming, a 5,000-seat Coliseum with A-List entertainment, gaming, and, of course, restaurants.

Susanne Tompkins, Caesars Windsor manager of PR and communications

While the strike’s future remains uncertain, the impact on Detroit’s poker rooms is a stark reminder of the ongoing challenges faced by the casino industry amid calls for better worker conditions and the return to pre-pandemic norms. Unlike Nevada residents, Michiganders have a viable alternative nearby, exacerbating the pressure for casinos to reach an agreement with protesters.

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