Argentina: Necochea casino finally starts recovery work

The Casino Complex in Necochea, Buenos Aires, has entered a new phase of recovery work, with initial efforts focused on cleaning and clearing the facilities. 

The site is also undergoing an assessment to identify which areas can be restored and which require more extensive intervention.

A Toda Vela Mar, the company responsible for the project, has begun the work following its acquisition of the Teatro Auditórium, which completed its purchase of the site's parcels. 

Architects, engineers and other professionals are surveying the property to establish priorities. This first stage also includes marking off work areas and measures to keep outsiders out of the work sites.

The Teatro Auditórium is one of the areas needing the most attention. Its deterioration forces the company to assess whether it can be recovered, and Merlo intends to keep its original structure, although that will depend on engineering studies and safety conditions. 

He said: “I would love to keep it as it is, but the unknown is whether the engineering backs it.” The studies will determine which interventions are needed and which parts of the facilities can be preserved, and for now the continuation of the work depends on the professionals’ conclusions.

Merlo also mentioned options for adding services along the coastal front, including hotel and gastronomy proposals meant to widen the choices for residents and visitors. 

He added: “The first thing that occurs to me is to give people services, so they choose Necochea again as a destination.” 

He confirmed that no services are planned for the beach area next season. The company has also requested a feasibility study into restoring gas supply to the beachfront, with timelines depending on the necessary approvals and any work required.

Merlo emphasized that developing these proposals requires coordination among the municipality, beachfront operators and the private sector. He added: “On our own, we get nothing done.”