Digne-les-Bains, a picturesque town in Alpes-de-Haute-Provence, France, is set to enhance its tourist and entertainment offerings with the construction of a new casino. This ambitious project, managed by the renowned Golden Palace Group, was formally introduced to the municipal council on Tuesday, October 8. The planned Casino Golden Palace Digne-les-Bains is expected to begin operations by the end of 2026, bringing a mix of traditional and electronic gaming, dining, and entertainment to the region.
Golden Palace, a leader in the Belgian casino market, secured the role of public service delegate for this project, promising a facility that blends seamlessly into the local scenery while promising significant economic benefits to the community.
A strategic boost for the local economy:
The introduction of the casino is anticipated to draw approximately 140,000 visitors annually. With an array of offerings including slot machines, card tables, a restaurant, and an entertainment venue, the casino aims to become a central hub of activity. “It’s a very old project. Many mayors have tried to achieve it, so we are happy to implement this project,” stated Francis Khun, the first deputy mayor of Digne-les-Bains, in an interview with BFM DICI, according to French news and radio network BFMTV.
The establishment is designed not only to entertain but also to stimulate the local economy. Expected to generate between 7 to 8 million euros in revenue initially, with projections rising to over 10 million euros by the end of its 18-year operation, the casino promises to bring about 30 new jobs and significant tax revenues to the municipality. “The casino’s turnover should be 7 million at the start and more than 10 million at the end of 18 years of operation… This should represent a million euros of revenue per year for the town of Digne-les-Bains,” Khun further elaborated.
Set within a less than 6,000 m2 plot near the local thermal baths, the construction emphasizes ecological sustainability and aims to contribute positively to the town’s ‘thermal village’ concept. “It will bring some animation and it will strengthen the entire thermal baths sector,” Khun expressed, highlighting the potential for enhanced local attractiveness.
Massimo Menegalli, president of the Golden Palace Group, echoed this sentiment in a press release, stating in the company’s press release, “We believe in the notion of popular entertainment. We have designed this casino for the region, tourists, but especially for the inhabitants of Digne-les-Bains. Our conviction is that we can create recreational, respectful and responsible places that everyone can make their own.”
Architectural harmony and responsible gaming:
The casino’s architecture is planned to respect Digne-les-Bains’ ecological and urban balance by integrating naturally into its green surroundings. This approach not only ensures a modern and welcoming infrastructure but also adheres to the town’s commitment to environmental stewardship.
The Golden Palace Group maintains a strong focus on responsible gaming. The new casino will incorporate measures to educate and protect players, reinforcing the Group’s ongoing commitment to safe and responsible gambling practices.
Scheduled to open its doors in 2027, the project stands as a testament to the potential for responsible and economically beneficial entertainment venues within the region.