The development of the Concord casino and hotel in New Hampshire is experiencing delays due to setbacks with the planning board

Pending approval, the casino and hotel project, spanning 45,000 square feet, has encountered a delay in commencing construction, with the application deferred to next month’s hearing. If approved, the anticipated timeline for the casino’s opening is estimated to be 18 months.

The groundbreaking date for the new casino hotel in Concord, New Hampshire is still pending. The approval for the proposed 43,000-square-foot facility has been delayed by the Concord planning board until the next month’s meeting.

The project by Big Step encompasses a charitable gaming hall, hotel, restaurant, and parking lot located at 7 Break O Day Drive in the Gateway Performance District. However, concerns have been raised by Concord Fire Chief John Chisholm and Police Chief Bradley Osgood regarding potential increases in crime and hindrances to emergency access due to increased traffic associated with the development.

During the previous meeting, the board members requested the developers to complete and submit their own emergency services impact assessment before the meeting held last week. However, a decision has been postponed to next month to allow city staff to review the report and address any issues raised.

Nick Golan of developer TFMoran expressed his disappointment, stating to Valley News: “As part of our presentation this evening, we were hoping to confirm that the required study had been provided and a third-party review had been conducted, and we had the intention to discuss those elements.”

“We are taken aback that this was the decision made tonight, considering our efforts to resolve these matters. Not having the opportunity to be heard this evening is very frustrating,” Golan added.

In New Hampshire, casinos are required to donate 35 percent of their gaming revenue to charities. Local groups such as the Concord Lions Club have expressed that the additional funds from the proposed casino would aid in expanding their charitable work. However, the casino project has faced opposition from some Concord residents.

If the plan is approved, the casino could open in 18 months and is expected to provide employment opportunities for over 250 people. The plan was initially presented in September.