A casino complex is set to transform the NEC site and create more than 1,100 jobs after being given the green light by Solihull Council.

The council’s licensing committee has granted a large casino licence to Genting Casinos, the culmination of a long process which began with the Gambling Act 2005 paving the way for a number casinos large and small across the UK.

The £120 million Resorts World leisure and entertainment complex is being developed in partnership with the NEC Group and the scheme will still be subject to planning permission being granted.

Genting Casinos said a plan would be submitted “imminently” meaning work could start later this year.

If so, the new complex, located between the LG Arena and Crowne Plaza Hotel, would be open by early 2014.

The 55,000 sq m facility will include a 180-bedroom hotel and spa, a banqueting and conference centre, a multi screen cinema, retail units, bars and restaurants and it is estimated it will attract around 650,000 visitors each year.

Resorts World forms a key component of the “Destination NEC” strategy which aims to enhance the visitor experience at the site and encourage people to stay there longer.

In addition to 1,100 full time jobs and a boost to the local economy estimated at around £25m each year, more than 1,750 construction jobs are expected to be created while it is being built.

The decision to grant the licence comes after three years of planning by Genting and the NEC Group and a public consultation exercise which Genting say saw 95 per cent of those who submitted written feedback in support of the scheme.

Peter Brooks, executive deputy chairman of Genting UK said: “The approved project will bring substantial benefits to Solihull and the wider region in terms of job creation and regeneration and will play a key role in the future prosperity and success of the NEC.

“This is the next step in our strong partnership with the NEC and we very much welcome the confidence shown in us by Solihull Council.