Ōtō Mayor Joji Nagahara has formally asked Fukuoka Prefecture to prepare an application for the town's proposed integrated resort (IR). The request marks the latest step in its effort to develop a casino resort and seek approval from the National Government.
Nagahara visited the Fukuoka Prefectural Government on October 20 to submit the request. Ōtō wants the prefecture to begin preparations for a regional development plan that could ultimately be submitted to the National Government for approval.
The mayor said the project could help address depopulation and support economic development across the wider Tagawa area. Ōtō estimates the economic impact from attracting an IR could reach ¥1trn (US$6.3bn).
However, Fukuoka Governor Seitaro Hattori has maintained a cautious position. He said the proposal requires careful consideration because of concerns including gambling addiction and potential effects on local living conditions and children, which could extend beyond Fukuoka to neighboring prefectures.
The formal request follows Nagahara's announcement earlier this month that Ōtō would begin discussions with the prefecture after securing local backing for the proposal.
The town council unanimously adopted a resolution supporting the IR plan in September, while 35 local organizations have also expressed support. Around 1,000 people attended a residents' briefing, although concerns were raised about the casino component.
Current plans cover approximately 300,000 square meters, with hotels, restaurants, commercial and entertainment facilities alongside a casino occupying less than 3% of the development.
Initial investment is estimated at ¥700bn to ¥900bn and would be privately funded. Ōtō previously projected approximately 7,000 jobs and an annual economic impact of around ¥650bn within Fukuoka Prefecture.
Ōtō cannot submit an IR application directly to the National Government
