The big money casino revolution on its way to Swansea should help put it on the UK map, council leaders have promised.
The assurance has come just 24 hours after the authority won its bid for a so-called small casino licence in a big shake up of gaming laws unveiled by the Government.
It means gambling companies will be able to apply to run a casino in the city with up to 80 jackpot machines paying out up to £4,000 at a time instead of the current £2,000 limit.
The winning casino will also be able to open a bookmakers on the premises for the first time.
A decision on where it is going will not come until later this year, although three rival bids are thought to be on the table.
Experts say it is good news for Swansea and will add to its growing leisure and entertainment line-up.
However, there have been fears raised over a rise in problem gamblers and addicts in the county.
Castle ward councillor David Phillips said he was disappointed by the decision adding: "It will inevitably lead to an increase in gambling in the city and the associated social problems that will bring.
"It is particularly disappointing as the details of the council's policy to deal with the associated problems has not been finalised."
But Swansea Council leaders are confident that there are enough safeguards in place to prevent large scale problems.
"And they say it will bring in extra cash to the area as people visit to play at its machines and gaming tables.
Cabinet member for leisure and tourism Gerald Clement said: "I think being the only one in Wales, there is a responsibility on us to make sure that it is a well-run and flagship casino.
"We can assure all those with concerns that we will be robust in our licensing and any possible breaches that may arise.
"Operators bidding for the new licence believe regulated gambling in casinos is safer for punters.
Andrew Herd, head of strategy and development at Aspers casino about to open as part of Swansea's Salubrious Place scheme said: "What we believe is that someone who comes into a casino is safer and better looked after than someone who gambles at home on the internet. Our staff can see if they are inebriated, or if there are other problems and deal with that. At home there may be no one to stop them."
Council leader Chris Holley also backed claims that casinos are a better place to bet than internet sites. He added: "The council would ensure better regulated gambling in Swansea in line with the new Gambling Act, which seeks to protect young and vulnerable groups, ensure gambling isn't a source of crime and disorder and is conducted in a fair and transparent manner.''
Fiona Rees, executive director of Swansea Futures, welcomed the coming of the new casino.
She said: "It is excellent news in terms of raising the profile of the city, and it is a really positive step.
"We were the only place in Wales to be successful, and it highlights the regeneration going on here.
"It helps to put the city on the map, and people who perhaps wouldn't have considered Swansea before will look at us and want to find out more about what we're doing and the opportunities we have to offer."
