Premier allows extra time for gaming proposals

The New South Wales Premier Barry O'Farrell has given the operators of Sydney's Star Casino, Echo Entertainment, and James Packer's Crown group extra time to finalise unsolicited gaming proposals.

After James Packer's Crown group lodged a plan to build a six star resort with a VIP gaming room at Barangaroo, Echo Entertainment upped the ante with its own proposal to spruce up Star casino.

Both proposals have been referred to an independent steering committee.

It is recommended that each be given until June 21st this year to submit final plans.

Billionaire businessman James Packer last week unveiled potential designs for his project, to build a new six-star hotel and casino at Barangaroo.

Critics of James Packer's plan say the billionaire has had a free ride through the planning approvals process.

Source: ABC News, 7 May 2013