In Cyprus and casino operator Melco International Development Limited has reportedly announced that it has renewed building work on its coming City of Dreams Mediterranean development following the lifting of local coronavirus-related construction restrictions.

According to a report from Inside Asian Gaming, the Hong Kong-headquartered firm used an official statement to detail that the re-start is being carried out under a strict set of guidelines issued by the island nation’s Department of Labour Inspection and Ministry of Labour, Welfare and Social Insurance as well as the Medical and Public Health Services division of its Ministry of Health.

Additional actions:

Melco Int’l?reportedly explained that it is also implementing a range of further measures that will require those working to build the $548 million gambling-friendly venue to wear facemasks, submit internal health declarations and undergo regular temperature checks. The firm purportedly moreover pronounced that all associated offices and shared spaces are to be cleaned daily with disinfectant alcohol and hand sanitizers made available at the gates of the construction site near Limassol.

Doubtful deadline:

Inside Asian Gaming reported that Melco had initially hoped to be able to open its 500-room City of Dreams Mediterranean property by the end of next year but cited the firm’s Construction Vice-President, Will Cornish, as declaring that the emergence of the coronavirus pandemic ‘may have affected our original timeline.’

Cornish reportedly stated…

“We remain committed to the Cyprus project; with our aim to deliver a premium entertainment experience, to offer the highest standards of service whilst ensuring a safe environment for all guests. We are aware that our role in the growth of the tourism industry and more broadly in Cyprus’ economy is of vital importance, especially during these challenging times. We will work tirelessly to ensure that following this crisis, the country will emerge as a point of reference for luxury tourism, creating a positive impact for society.”

Prominent presence:

Melco Int’l is the parent of Asian casino giant Melco Resorts and Entertainment Limited and won the right in 2017 to bring casino gambling to Cyprus via a 30-year license. The firm subsequently opened its temporary C2 Limassol venue before premiering smaller ‘satellite’ facilities in the nearby communities of Nicosia, Larnaca, Ayia Napa and Paphos, which are to reportedly be permitted to re-open from July 14 after being temporarily shuttered some seven weeks ago.