Casino workers welcome long-awaited sale of Necochea complex

Employees at the Casino Complex in Necochea have welcomed the public auction that awarded the long deteriorated coastal property to private investment group A Toda Vela Mar, describing the result as a turning point after decades of stalled projects and building disrepair.

Paulo Nielsen, a member of the National Casino Employees Association, said: "We are happy and hopeful." 

Nielsen, who has worked at the casino for more than two decades, said staff had spent years dealing with leaks, falling structures and deteriorating services that raised constant concerns about job security and working conditions.

According to him, a municipal ordinance approved alongside the sale guarantees that space for the gaming hall will be preserved, ensuring the activity remains under the administration of Buenos Aires Province's Lottery and Casino institute. 

He added that conversations with officials during the auction event raised expectations that a tender for slot machines could move forward within a reasonable timeframe, a development workers see as central to expanding the casino's operations and hours.

Nielsen added: "With a renovated casino and slot machines, more spaces could be opened and more jobs created."

Juan Manuel Vernengo, Director of Racetracks and Casinos for Buenos Aires Province, attended the auction and the signing of the award documents. He described the sale as an important step for the city.

He said: "The priority for the Provincial Institute of Lottery and Casinos is to preserve jobs and substantially improve conditions for workers."

The buyer's initial plans reportedly include hospitality, dining and commercial development alongside the gaming operation. Investor Oscar Merlo has also announced a partnership with Casinos Victoria for the slot machine concession at the site, pending the completion of administrative steps to formalize the property transfer.