A POPULAR casino along Southend seafront says costs involved in fixing crumbling concrete in its building “will be significant”.

Genting Casino, in Western Esplanade, shut its doors immediately in November following the discovery of Raac.

The business remained fully closed for a couple of weeks, before re-opening the full gaming offer, restaurant, and entrance bar.

However, the main bar area and poker room remained closed.

Genting Casino has confirmed only the poker room remains closed.

Bosses however say they are now calculating the costs involved to remedy the situation fully.

A spokesman for Genting Casino said: “Genting Casino Westcliff re-opened in November after a two-week closure and our popular main bar area was open in time for the Festive Party season.

“Currently, the only area that remains closed is our poker room.

“No further problems have been identified and we are now calculating the costs involved to remedy the situation fully, which will be significant.

“However, we have been delighted to see so many of our customers share some great experiences with us over the festive period and we look forward to continuing to serve them in the year ahead.”

The casino, which was built in the 1970s, has been serving the city of Southend for decades.

Daniel Nelson, Conservative councillor responsible for economic growth and investment, said: “We visited the businesses during the festive period, and it was great to see how busy it was.

“These are the businesses we want to continue in Southend. They are a national casino brand and to have one in Southend on the seafront is fantastic.

“It is fantastic news that they are really getting on top of the Raac issue and have got customers back though their doors.

“It is a very iconic building which we wouldn’t want closed for long weeks.

“I am sure it is hard for any business to have unexpected costs, which come with running a business.

“But knowing the management there as I do, and having had a number of conversations, I know they will be well up to the task and I wish them all the best as it would be a travesty if it were to close.”

Genting Casino was asked for a figure on the costs involved but is yet to respond.