THE FATE of Southampton's casino plans rests with the city council, the Daily Echo has learned.

The Government has written to the council, which has changed from Liberal Democrat to Tory control since the proposals were first submitted, to check the city's new leaders are still keen.

If they are, then ministers will bring forward legislation in the autumn to enable the council to grant a licence for a so-called "large" casino, with up to 150 slot machines and 4,000 jackpots.

Royston Smith, Cabinet member for economic development and regeneration on Southampton City Council, said he would probably seek the power to licence a casino - but would not exercise it without public approval.

Councillor Smith said the council had not yet decided how it would consult with the public but would consider a city-wide survey, public meetings or an opinion poll.

He said the council did not have a casino operator in mind and could not give an indication as to when a decision might be taken.

The plans were thrown into doubt earlier this week when Gordon Brown announced he was reviewing the Government's gambling policy.

The Department for Culture, Media and Sport says it intends to press ahead with the casinos - as long as the local authorities were in agreement.