Star City throws $475m at 'tacky' image - ABC - 24th September 2008

Tabcorp has announced plans for a $475 million redevelopment of Sydney's Star City Casino.

The 10-year-old casino will be expanded to include a new five-star hotel, more restaurants, shops and outdoor gaming areas if the New South Wales Government approves the plans.

It would also be renovated to face Sydney Harbour and the city skyline.

A new entrance is planned for the harbour side of the building, while the main gaming floor would be redesigned and restaurants would be built to face the skyline.

Star City managing director Craig Garvin says there will be no new poker machines but an application has been made for extra gaming tables.

Mr Garvin says the project is aimed at improving the casino's image.

"We do have a five-star hotel and the best theatre in Australia, which attracts the very best productions from around the world, which we think is very important," he said.

"Yet the perception here is that perhaps we're tired and tacky, and we aim to fix that perception."

The new 309-room hotel would be built on a vacant block of land next to the casino.

Residents groups have indicated they do not have any major concerns with the plans, which go on public display today.

If approved, construction is expected to start early next year and be completed in 2011.

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