Oito Mayor Joji Nagahara has announced plans to begin procedures with Fukuoka Prefecture this month as the town seeks to advance a proposed integrated resort development including a casino.
Nagahara said the town had gained sufficient local support to move forward. Oito's town council unanimously approved a resolution promoting the project in September, while 35 local organizations have also expressed support.
Around 1,000 people attended a residents' briefing, where officials outlined the potential economic and employment impact. While several residents supported the proposal, others raised concerns about including a casino in the development.
The current plan would cover approximately 300,000 square meters and include hotels, restaurants, commercial and entertainment facilities. Casino facilities would account for less than 3% of the overall development.
Initial investment is estimated at between ¥700bn and ¥900bn and would be entirely privately funded. Oito expects the resort to create around 7,000 jobs once operational and estimates an annual economic impact of approximately ¥650bn within Fukuoka Prefecture.
Officials view the proposed development as a potential response to challenges including population decline and weakness in the local economy. Representatives from other municipalities in the Tagawa District have also discussed the plan, although some have expressed uncertainty over whether the bid can ultimately proceed.
Oito cannot apply directly to the National Government for an IR licence. The town must first secure backing from Fukuoka Prefecture, including approval from the prefectural assembly.
The town is aiming for the proposal to reach the Fukuoka Prefectural Assembly by December. If approved at the prefectural level, the project would still need to undergo the National Government's review before it could move forward.
Only prefectures and designated cities can submit IR applications to Japan's National Government
